Canada today acceded to the International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) in Moscow, an intergovernmental non-proliferation organization founded in 1992 by Japan, Norway, the United States and the European Union. Canada and the ISTC signed a memorandum of understanding detailing the modalities of Canada's participation as a new ISTC member. Canada will occupy a seat on the Governing Board and participate in the Science Advisory Committee. Canada will also provide $18 million annually to fund ISTC projects aimed at integrating former weapons scientists in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) into the international scientific community to carry out peaceful research activities.

"Redirecting former Russian weapons scientists into civilian applications is a key element of our international security agenda and a high priority for Canada under the G8 Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction," said Foreign Affairs Minister Bill Graham. "Canada's accession to the Center will allow us to contribute effectively to an organization that builds on international cooperation to enhance international safety and security. It is a very positive development in strengthening Canada's commitment to the Global Partnership."

Canada's annual funding commitment will go toward the ISTC Science Program, supplemental programs and operating budget commitments. The employment of former weapons scientists is part of the Global Partnership, launched in June 2002 at Kananaskis by G8 leaders. The Partnership commits the G8 to raise up to US$20 billion to support cooperation projects, initially in Russia, aimed at preventing the acquisition of weapons and materials of mass destruction by terrorists or those who shelter them.

ISTC objectives include giving CIS weapons scientists, particularly those with knowledge and skills related to weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems, opportunities to redirect their talents to peaceful activities; contributing to solving national and international technical problems; supporting the transition to market-based economies; supporting basic and applied research; and encouraging the integration of CIS weapons scientists into the international scientific community.

For additional information on the Global Partnership and Canada's efforts, please visit http://www.globalpartnership.gc.ca