workshop on implementing Security Council resolution 1540 (2004)

in caribbean region begins in kingston, jamaica, 29-30 May

NEW YORK, 29 May (Office for Disarmament Affairs) -- A United Nations workshop, entitled “Implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540 (2004) in the Caribbean”, will be held in Kingston, Jamaica, from 29 to 30 May.  The seminar is hosted by the Government of Jamaica, organized by the Office for Disarmament Affairs and sponsored by the European Union and the Governments of Canada and Norway.

Approximately 35 participants from governmental sectors, mainly from the Caribbean, as well as international, regional and subregional, non-governmental and industry organizations will participate.  They will address the current implementation status of resolution 1540 in the Caribbean region; focusing in particular on reporting, trans-shipment and border controls.  Special emphasis will also be given to the requirements and opportunities for international cooperation and assistance for implementing all aspects of resolutions 1540 and 1673 (2006).

On 28 April 2004, the Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 1540 under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, deciding that all States refrain from supporting by any means non-State actors that attempt to acquire, use or transfer nuclear, chemical or biological weapons and their delivery systems.  Resolution 1540 imposes binding obligations on all States to establish domestic controls to prevent the proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, and their means of delivery, including by establishing appropriate controls over related materials and adopting legislative measures in that respect.

On 27 April 2006, the Security Council extended the mandate of the 1540 Committee for two years with the adoption of resolution 1673, which reiterated the objectives of resolution 1540 and decided to intensify its efforts to promote full implementation of the resolution.

For further information, contact:  Thomas Markram at e-mail:  markram@un.org or tel.:  212 963 0008.

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For information media • not an official record