Biological Weapons

U.S. National Statement for the BWC Experts Meeting

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The topic of our discussions this week is “effective action on the provision of assistance and coordination with relevant organizations upon request in the case of alleged use of biological or toxin weapons.” Confidence that such assistance will be available strengthens the Biological Weapons Convention. If commitments to provide assistance are real, credible, and effective, they can serve as an incentive for States to join the Convention, and a deterrent to those who might consider using biological weapons.

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Biological Weapons Convention: Meeting of Experts, August 23-27, 2010

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The 2010 Meeting of Experts will held in the Palais des Nations Room XIX from 23 to 27 August 2010. In accordance with the decision of the Sixth Review Conference, the Meeting of Experts will discuss, and promote common understanding and effective action on the provision of assistance and coordination with relevant organizations upon request by any State Party in the case of alleged use of biological or toxin weapons, including improving national capabilities for disease surveillance, detection and diagnosis and public health systems.

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Obama Seeks Security Through Peace & Global Cooperation

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The highest priorities of U.S. national security are the safety of Americans at home and abroad and achieving a peaceful, stable world through global cooperation despite a flawed international system, President Obama says.

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National Strategy for Countering Biological Threats

National Strategy for Countering Biological Threats

The effective dissemination of a lethal biological agent within an unprotected population could place at risk the lives of hundreds of thousands of people. The unmitigated consequences of such an event could overwhelm our public health capabilities, potentially causing an untold number of deaths. The economic cost could exceed one trillion dollars for each such incident.

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Under Secretary of State Ellen Tauscher: Address to States Parties of the BWC

Under Secretary of State Ellen O. Tauscher Addressing the States Parties of the Biological Weapons Convention

I have come here today to share with you President Obama’s strategy for preventing biological weapons proliferation and bioterrorism. The United States intends to implement this strategy through renewed cooperation and more thorough consultations with our international counterparts in order to prevent the misuse and abuse of science while working together to strengthen health security around the world.

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