TEHRAN, May 24 (MNA) � Iranian deputy FM said Israel refuses to join the nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation mechanisms posing a serious threat to the regional and international peace and security.


Speaking during the 14th meeting of National Authorities of Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) SPs in Asia, held in Tehran on Monday, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the Islamic Republic of Iran as a responsible and committed member of the international community has decided to join the international disarmament agreements, in particular those related to the weapons of mass destruction.

�The voluntary approach is rooted in our religious principles and rational calculations of our national interests and defense strategy,� Araghchi said adding �accordingly, the Islamic Republic of Iran condemns the use of weapons of mass destruction, including chemical weapons, by anyone and under any circumstances.�

He noted that Iran calls for an end to the use of any weapons of mass destruction.

�Iran, as a victim of chemical weapons in the present age, has played a constructive role in the preparation and adoption of the Chemical Weapons Convention,� Araghchi said.

He noted the global adherence to the Chemical Weapons Convention is a bold step to achieve the main objective of the Convention and to help significantly to international peace and security.

Araghchi asserted that the objectives will not be achieved completely so long that even a non-member country could possess or acquire chemical weapons.

Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), since the beginning of its activity as a unique international reference, provided a successful model of multilateral mechanisms that all its member states have the same rights and obligations, Araghchi addressed the participants.

Over the past 18 years, he added, the Islamic Republic of Iran has cooperated with the OPCW Technical Secretariat.

�The Islamic Republic of Iran proposed the establishment of an international support network for victims of chemical weapons during the 15th Session of the Conference of the States Parties of the OPCW on 29 November 2010; the OPCW Executive Council then was responsible for further investigations and to report and draft final decision,� Araghchi underlined.

He asked for all member states to advance humanitarian goals helping the network and showing their solidarity with the victims of chemical weapons.

By Mehr News Agency