The Senate of Pakistan has approved a new bill, called the Biological and Toxic Weapons Convention Implementation Bill, which imposes a complete nationwide ban on the biological weapons development, possession, and transfer. The new legislation clearly states that no one in Pakistan will be allowed to manufacture, store, transport, import, or export biological or toxic weapons. It also makes illegal, the acquisition of any material or technology that can be of any use in production. The sources informed that the bill will apply not only to citizens of Pakistan, but also to any person committing an offense within the country’s territorial jurisdiction or against its interests. Such legislation shall also be applicable to foreigners present within the borders of Pakistan. The proclaiming of serious punishments awaits violators of this law, such as development, stockpiling or transfer of biological weapons. An offender could face up to 25 years in prison, and a fine up to Rs. 100 million. The designated authority will define in detail, the role of a Central Authority that will permit the use of such materials or technologies under the strict regulation for peaceful projects, like scientific research or public health initiatives. This cardinal legislation is a pivotal mark for Pakistan to get in line with the international norms pertaining to the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC), which Pakistan is a signatory to.
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