OPCW Director-General Arias meets Syrian Transitional President al-Sharaa to finalize chemical weapons disarmament

DARAMSUQ — Fernando Arias, Director-General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), met with Ahmed al-Sharaa, head of Syria’s transitional government, to advance efforts toward the complete elimination of Syria’s chemical weapons program. The meeting represents a significant step in resolving the long-standing issue of chemical weapons in the region.

Fresh Start for Disarmament

After their discussions in Daramsuq (Damascus), Arias described the meeting as a pivotal moment for Syria’s adherence to international disarmament obligations. He noted that the dialogue laid the foundation for enduring cooperation, reinforcing Syria’s commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention and contributing to global non-proliferation efforts.

The talks centered on Syria’s responsibilities under the convention, the OPCW’s role in monitoring compliance, and the support required to dismantle the remaining stockpiles and infrastructure linked to the former regime’s chemical weapons program.

Addressing a Dark Legacy

The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime on 8 December has reignited hopes for Syria to finally eliminate all remnants of its chemical weapons capabilities. The issue has been a source of international condemnation since the 2013 sarin gas attack that killed hundreds.

Following that attack, Syria joined the OPCW under a US-Russian agreement, leading to the destruction of 1,300 tons of chemical agents and precursor materials. However, unresolved concerns about undeclared stockpiles and capabilities persisted, undermining trust in the process.

With the transitional government now in place, there is renewed optimism that Syria can close this controversial chapter and move forward toward a more secure and peaceful future.