Chair,
At the outset, let me acknowledge you and your team’s efforts in steering the work of this Group.
You will have support of my delegation, particularly as we reach a very critical juncture in our discussions and negotiations.
Let me also welcome the two new additions to the BWC family, and thank you and the ISU for your contributions in facilitating their accession.
Chair,
The final document of the 9th RevCon agreed that the WG should recommend measures to strengthen the Convention. These measures, it was noted in the final document, that they “should be formulated and designed in a manner such that their implementation supports international cooperation efforts and avoids any negative impacts”.
The 9th RevCon, in particular, decided to “develop with a view to establishing a mechanism to facilitate and support the full implementation of the international cooperation and assistance under Article X”.
In this regard, our view is that establishment of the ICA mechanism remains at the very “core” of our efforts to strengthen international cooperation and assistance within the BWC.
India acknowledges the paper CRP.1 prepared in the 5th session of the Working Group, which contained the details regarding the possible mandate, modalities, structure, functions and financing of the ICA mechanism.
The CRP.1 was extensively debated and examined, but could not be concluded. This paper, in our view, continues to serve as a useful basis for further and final negotiations.
With regard to Rolling Text circulated prior to this session, we take note of the new proposals.
Our delegation broadly welcomes these proposals as outlined in para 1&2, and para 3, 4 and 5, whether that is in terms of International Biosecurity Education Network, Laboratory Network and its Twinning Programme and Capacity Building Fellowship.
However, it is our view, that we would all benefit from a deeper discussion into the functions, modalities and possible financing of these new initiatives, and more importantly, how they would not duplicate functions and mandate of the ICA mechanism.
There is also a need to consider if and how these proposals could be subsumed within the ICA mechanism and its possible provision through the existing Article X database.
Chair,
In conclusion, India supports the comprehensive and balanced strengthening of our Convention, of which the establishment of the ICA mechanism will form a key part.
My delegation stands ready to engage constructively in discussions, and look forward to facilitating a productive and pragmatic outcome of the Working Group.
******
