Syria, Use of Chemical Weapons: Statement During Briefing

Thank you, Madam President,

Allow me to thank Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu for her updates on the ongoing activities of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, as well as the regular reports on the ongoing investigations on the use of Chemical Weapons. Kenya also takes note of the February 24, 2021 report of OPCW

Kenya appreciates that despite the COVID-19 pandemic leading to the postponement of planned deployments and missions, the OPCW has found ways to ensure continuity in the technical consultations with Syria.

We welcome the submission by the Syrian Arab Republic to the Council of its eighty-seventh monthly report regarding activities on its territory related to the destruction of its chemical weapons and production facilities.

We emphasise the need for coordination between Syria and the OPCW to conclude the 19 identified gaps, inconsistencies, and discrepancies that remain unresolved in Syria, and ensure a quick conclusion of the investigations.

We also welcome the deployment of the Declaration Assessment Team (DAT) to the Syrian Arab Republic in February for the twenty-fourth round of consultations and look forward to positive outcomes and updates on this visit.

Madam President,

Kenya welcomes the extension of the Tripartite Agreement for a period of six months and take note of the importance of this agreement in the facilitation of the work of the Secretariat.

Kenya believes that the use of chemical weapons anywhere and by anyone constitutes a clear and unacceptable violation of international law. No cause can ever justify the use of a weapon of mass destruction by any actor, under any circumstances. We support credible and transparent investigations that lead to a timely resolution of any accusations of use of these weapons.

The Security Council should support all efforts to strengthen the OPCW to ensure full transparency and professionalism in its investigations. Its sensitive and important work is reflected in the expectation of the International Community that its work always remain above reproach.

We believe that an expeditious closure of investigations into the use of chemical weapons in Syria will allow the Council to more meaningfully help the Syrian people in their quest for a political solution. That political solution is the only way to bring an end to their suffering, impoverishment and victimization.

Kenya stands with the people of Syria by calling for an inclusive Syrian-led and owned dialogue seeking a political resolution reflecting their will.

We urge the states involved in one way or another in the conflicts that are afflicting Syria to understand that their actions are visible to the global community, and that their conduct there reflects on them. The world expects this Council to offer solutions on Syria, to show that interests can be set aside for the sake of a people who have suffered too much, for too long, and multilateralism turned into a tool for the people and for peace.

Thank you