Destroying Syrian chemical weapons needs joint efforts

The government will continue its manpower and material support to help the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons destroy Syria’s chemical weapons, said an article in the People’s Daily (excerpts below).

The OPCW reached a consensus on Nov 15 that Syria’s chemical weapons should be destroyed in a third-party country and all chemical materials and facilities must be completely decommissioned by the end of next June.

But challenges remain. No country, so far, is willing to serve as the “third-party”. How to collect the chemical weapons and materials from dozens of areas in Syria and deliver them to a port for safe removal is also a big problem. Moreover, it is estimated the whole project will cost about $1billion, money that neither the Syrian government nor the opposition cannot afford.

The Chinese government has recommended a batch of experts to OPCW, who can participate in the project.

The international community should carry on the positive momentum and provide the necessary help to solve the regional issue.