"Everyone knows the despicable acts for which the Syrian regime is responsible." [fr]

Mr. President,

First of all, I would like to thank Ms. Nakamitsu for her presentation.

We must not lose sight of why we are here. Since 2013, the Syrian regime has used chemical weapons against its own population at least eight times. This has been demonstrated unambiguously by the OPCW and United Nations investigations. Yet since the unanimous adoption of Resolution 2118 over eight years ago, no progress has been made.

Mr. President,

I would like to return to three points:

First, France welcomes the publication a few weeks ago of the two reports of the fact-finding mission. They are very well documented, they show that chemical weapons were used in Marea in 2015 and in Kafr Zeita in 2016. The work of the investigation and identification team to identify the perpetrators is essential. France will be attentive to its forthcoming findings.

Second, it is not acceptable that the Syrian regime continues to obstruct the work of the OPCW. It has still not issued the necessary visas for the deployment of the declaration assessment team for the initial declaration. It continues to interfere in the selection of inspectors. Under false pretexts, it seeks to hinder the missions of the Technical Secretariat, which has shown tenacity and great professionalism. The disinformation campaigns are unacceptable and must stop.

Third, the measures taken in April 2021 at the Conference of States Parties are not irreversible. The suspended rights and privileges can be restored. All that is required is for Syria to comply with its treaty obligations.

Mr. President,

Everyone knows the despicable acts for which the Syrian regime is responsible. This is why France is firmly committed to the fight against impunity. Victims are turning to national jurisdictions. We must be clear: there will be no rest for the war criminals who use these shocking weapons that are banned by international law.

Thank you./.