Washington, DC - On Tuesday, the Government of the Central African Republic deposited its instrument of ratification to the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BWC) with the U.S. Department of State, one of this treaty’s Depositary Governments. The United States warmly congratulates the Central African Republic for taking this step, which advances the BWC toward the goal of universalization.

The BWC is the key instrument for strengthening international efforts against the threat posed by biological weapons, whether in the hands of state or non-state actors. Maximizing its effectiveness requires that all states become Parties and fully implement its obligations. The United States urges all states not party to the BWC to accede to the treaty without further delay.