22 March 2013
Australia welcomes the decision by the United Nations Secretary-General to launch an investigation into the reported possible use of chemical weapons in Syria.
Any use of chemical weapons would be in clear violation of international law.
The seriousness of these allegations warrants a full, independent and impartial investigation by the Secretary General and his experts.
Australia welcomes the Secretary-General’s advice that he will conduct his investigation with the support of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Australia encourages the Secretary-General to ensure the investigation commences quickly and covers all serious allegations about the use of chemical weapons in Syria.
All parties in Syria, particularly the Assad regime, must cooperate fully with the investigation including by providing unimpeded access for investigators and ensuring their safety and security.
