Statement Delivered on behalf of the Center for Countermeasures against Chemical and Biological Warfare Agents, CCACBWA, for the CSP-30 of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons- “Bridging Scientific Innovation and Global Chemical Security” 24 – 28th November, 2025. Hague, Netherlands

Dear Mr. Chairperson, the Director-General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, Excellencies, distinguished diplomats, NGO colleagues, and Ladies and Gentlemen The Center for Countermeasures against Chemical and Biological Warfare Agents (CCACBWA) proposes to make a significant and timely contribution to CSP-30 by addressing a critical gap in the global chemical security architecture, a gap made more urgent by recent allegations of chemical weapons use. Our contribution is framed not as a political accusation, but as a practical, scientific, and humanitarian response to the evolving nature of chemical threats, including those posed by their alleged abuse by state and non-state actors. 1. Providing a Scientific and Humanitarian Solution in a Politicized Environment Amidst concerning reports from conflict zones—such as the alleged use of chemical weapons by Russia in Ukraine and the deployment of toxic chemicals by Israel in Gaza—the international disarmament community risks being paralyzed by political divisions. CCACBWA’s side event cuts through this politicization by focusing on a tangible, life-saving technology. • Our Contribution: We shift the conversation from accusation to protection. By presenting SodaSulphanecobalamin (SSCBL), we offer a universal tool that aligns with the core humanitarian spirit of the Chemical Weapons Convention. Our focus is on saving lives, regardless of the perpetrator or the geopolitical context of an attack. 2. Directly Addressing the "Multi-Threat" Reality of Modern Conflicts Modern conflicts and alleged violations demonstrate the use of a variety of chemical agents. A nation or first responder cannot afford to stockpile dozens of single-agent antidotes. • Our Contribution: SSCBL is designed as a broad-spectrum countermeasure. This is directly relevant to the complex threat landscape where, for instance, a single attack could involve nerve agents or where industrial chemicals (like cyanides) are weaponized. Our research provides a practical answer to this multifaceted challenge, enhancing global preparedness against the diverse arsenal of threats, including those recently alleged. 3. Empowering All Member States, Especially Vulnerable Regions The alleged use of chemical weapons sets a dangerous precedent and lowers the threshold for their use elsewhere. This disproportionately threatens regions with less developed CBRNe response capabilities, including parts of Africa. • Our Contribution: As a West African organization, CCACBWA represents the Global South on this critical issue. We are demonstrating leadership and innovation from a region often seen as a recipient, rather than a generator, of advanced security science. By presenting SSCBL, which promises easier storage and deployment, we offer a potential solution that can bolster the national preparedness of all OPCW Member States, particularly those with limited resources. 4. Reinforcing the Norm Against Chemical Weapons Through Science The best way to deter the misuse of chemical weapons is to render them less effective. By advancing medical countermeasures, we reduce the potential casualty count and tactical advantage an attacker might seek. • Our Contribution: Our work on SSCBL strengthens the global norm against chemical weapons by mitigating their consequences. It sends a powerful message that the scientific community is united in developing defenses that protect civilians and first responders, thereby upholding the principles of the CWC even in the face of violations. 5. A Call for Collaborative Validation and Standardization In light of recent abuses, the need for internationally validated, trusted, and readily available medical countermeasures has never been greater. • Our Contribution: We use our side event not just to present, but to seek collaboration with the OPCW, its Member States, and other scientific bodies. We invite the international community to participate in the next phase of validation (GLP studies, clinical trials) to ensure that this potential life-saving tool meets the highest standards and can be integrated into international response protocols. https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-7779935/v1 CCACBWA's contribution to CSP-30 is to serve as a bridge between scientific innovation and urgent global need. At a time when the chemical weapons taboo is under pressure, we refocus the debate on the core humanitarian mission of the OPCW. We provide a concrete, scientific response that empowers all nations, enhances global security, and upholds the principle that the use of chemical weapons is an affront to humanity—an affront that the global scientific community is actively working to counter. By supporting these initiatives, delegates will be endorsing a proactive, practical, and unifying approach to one of the most pressing challenges facing the Convention today. Thank you, Mr. Chair Head of Delegation and Member Idayat Shalewa Salako Ogunbawo Yetunde Oluwaseyi Reference Olatunji N. Salako¹, Idayat Shalewa Salako, Modupe Adebanji Akingbade et al. SodaSulphanecobalamin as a Broad-Spectrum Medical Countermeasure Agent for Chemical and Biological Threats: Synthesis, Safety, and Comparative Analysis, 07 October 2025, PREPRINT (Version 1) available at Research Square [https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7779935/v1]