Russia opens additional plant to dispose of chemical weapons. As a signatory party to the Chemical Weapons Convention, the nation has opened a new plant at Pochep in western Russia to help eliminate stockpiled weapons. The plant, which is the sixth of its kind in the country and the largest in the world thus far, is scheduled to demolish 7,500 tons, or almost 20% of Russia’s stored chemical arms. Despite a lack of funding that may delay the originally scheduled completion date of April 2012, the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade noted that the country has already disposed of about 50% of its weapons and affirmed its commitment to carry out the entire disarmament.

Our admiring salute, Russia, for your steps leading to greater peace and safety for all. Through such actions as yours, may lives of security and shared respect be enjoyed by the noble-hearted Russians and people across the globe.