CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION (CWC) - EXTENSION OF U.S.

UNCLAS MASERU 000199 SIPDIS SIPDIS FOR AF/S E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PARM PREL CWC LT SUBJECT: CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION (CWC) - EXTENSION OF U.S. DEADLINE: LESOTHO REF: STATE 62850 ¶1. On April 25, Ambassador reviewed U.S. commitment to destroying its stockpile of CWC. We explained the need for an extension to the year 2012, the latest date allowable under the CWC. We added that our commitment to the CWC is deep and we are making every effort to honor the treaty obligation. Furthermore, we explained the challenges of safely destroying the worlds second largest CW stockpile and the fact that it is a difficult and complex task. That said, the U.S. has already made significant progress through the destruction of 10,000 tons of chemical agents. ¶2. Foreign Minister Moleleki appeared to be impressed by the progress the U.S. has already made in meeting its commitment to destroy its chemical weapons. He expressed the desire that all countries possessing such weapons would proceed with the dedication and efficiency that the U.S. has already demonstrated. He indicated that the U.S. has the full support of Lesotho in pursuing this goal and reiterated that it is the wish of the GOL that all countries proceed in such a transparent and effective manner. PERRY