The Presidium of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan (NAST), in collaboration with the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Safety and Security Agency (CBRN SSA) of the NAST, hosted a high-level international event on October 15, 2024.
The event that took place in Hyatt Regency Hotel, Dushanbe was reportedly attended by representatives from 14 embassies, including the embassies of Russia, the USA, Saudi Arabia, the European Delegation, and some others. Additionally, 16 international organizations participated in the meeting, including the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and others, demonstrating broad international support for Tajikistan’s initiative.
The project proposals for the establishment of the International Training Facility for Countering WMD and CBRN Terrorism were presented during the event. In addition to this project, more than 30 other project proposals were also presented, covering various aspects of CBRN.
The high level of diplomatic participation reportedly highlights the global nature of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) threats and the importance of multilateral cooperation in overcoming them. The event provided a platform for discussions on partnership opportunities and support from donor countries and international organizations.
On behalf of the international partners, a representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime expressed strong support for Tajikistan’s efforts, calling the proposed center "a critical tool for enhancing global security."
The International Training Facility for Countering WMD and CBRN Terrorism is set to become a key element of regional and international cooperation, offering extensive training programs for schoolchildren, students, military personnel, law enforcement officers, and emergency responders. The event concluded with several participants reaffirming their commitment to continue discussions on funding and partnership models, with plans to begin implementing the initial projects in the near future.