Press Release
The Center for International Strategic Studies (CISS), Islamabad, organized an interactive expert session on the Peaceful Uses ofChemistry with leading experts associated with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) at CISS Islamabad. The distinguished speakers included Professor Alastair Hay, member of OPCW advisory bodies; Dr Rohan Prasantha Perera, former OPCW Senior Program Officer and Dr Syeda Sultana Razia, former member of the OPCW Scientific Advisory Board. The session brought together prominent think tank professionals, academics, policymakers and Pakistani experts working on matters related to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
The interactive session underscored that chemistry remains a vital driver of human progress and continues to play a central role in national development, innovation, healthcare, industry and economic growth. They stressed that the Chemical Weapons Convention is regarded as one of the most successful multilateral disarmament treaties, establishing a comprehensive framework against chemical weapons while promoting international cooperation. The speakers emphasized that, beyond its nonproliferation and verification mechanisms, Article XI of the CWC must be equally recognized for its role in facilitating scientific exchange, capacity building and the advancement of chemistry for peaceful purposes. The experts highlighted the importance of international cooperation, knowledge sharing and capacity building initiatives in ensuring that chemistry continues to contribute to economic development, innovation and societal well-being while addressing evolving security challenges. Participants emphasized the need for stronger linkages between scientific communities, industry stakeholders, policymakers and international organizations to advance responsible chemistry and enhance regional cooperation. The discussion also explored opportunities for Pakistan to further benefit from international capacity-building initiatives, scientific networks and collaborative frameworks under the CWC. The session concluded with remarks emphasizing the significance of sustained engagement among stakeholders to promote peaceful applications of chemistry, strengthen chemical safety frameworks and encourage responsible scientific innovation across the globe.
