Basic Course of the 2026 Regional Training Cycle on Assistance and Protection for Member States in Asia

The National Authority for the Implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC), functioning under the Ministry of Defence, Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), successfully conducted the "Basic Course of the 2026 Regional Training Cycle on Assistance and Protection for Member States in Asia."

The five-day regional capacity-building programme commenced on 18 May 2026 and concluded successfully on 22 May 2026 at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo. The course brought together 27 foreign and local participants representing 14 countries across the Asian region to enhance international cooperation, safety, and operational readiness against chemical emergency threats by the emergency First Responders

The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of distinguished local and international dignitaries. Air Vice Marshal Shehan Wijayanayake, Director of the NACWC Sri Lanka graced the inaugural session alongside Ms. Thilini Pieris, Senior Assistant Secretary (Defence Services) of the Ministry of Defence and Wing Commander Daham Wickramarathne, Commanding Officer of No 49 CBRNE Wing Sri Lanka Air Force Base Katunayake. Representing the international body, Ms. Eapen Rebecca, Head of the Assistance and Protection Branch (APB) at the OPCW, and Mr. Luyeye Loic Michel, Project Officer of the OPCW, participated as key representatives.

The curriculum provided participants with deep insights into chemical incident management, toxicological profiles, and defensive protocols. The early days of the training focused on classroom lectures and demonstrations, led by specialized military experts from the Sri Lankan Tri-Services along with a visit to Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Base Katunayake for field training. The field modules tested participants' abilities to operate under simulated contamination zones. Advanced demonstration units showcased modern chemical detection, recognition, identification techniques, and large-scale decontamination procedures.

This successful iteration reaffirms Sri Lanka's standing as a proactive partner in the global disarmament regime and highlights the Ministry of Defence's ongoing commitment to fostering regional security and resilience against chemical warfare threats.