Workshop on CTBTO International Cooperation for States from Northern Africa

A workshop on CTBTO International Cooperation for States from Northern Africa, organized by the Provisional Technical Secretariat in cooperation with the Government of Tunisia, has taken place in Tunis, Tunisia. The workshop was attended by thirty-five participants from six States (Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Sudan and Tunisia). The workshop was opened by the Tunisian Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs Said Chtioui, on 13 April 2004. Participants were provided with a comprehensive overview of the work of the Preparatory Commission and the technologies of the CTBT verification regime. The benefits of membership to States, including civil and scientific applications of verification technologies, were also presented.

The workshop addressed several themes. These included discussions on enhancing regional exchanges of information and experiences, with the aim of facilitating the timely establishment of the verification regime and the early entry into force of the Treaty. Participants also explored ways and means to promote cooperation among the States of Northern Africa for CTBT purposes, including cooperation in verification technologies. Proposals for follow up were also made. The workshop closed on 15 April 2004 with addresses by the Tunisian Secretary of State for Scientific Research and Technology, Mr Sadok Korbi, and the Executive Secretary of the CTBTO Preparatory Commission, Mr Wolfgang Hoffmann.