Excellencies, distinguished experts, panelists, and colleagues,
As the two-day conference draws to a close, I am happy to reflect on the depth of dialogue, the richness of perspectives, and the shared sense of purpose that has defined our discussions on ‘50 Years of BWC: Strengthening Biosecurity for the Global South.’
Over the course of these sessions, we have not only commemorated a historic milestone of BWC, but have also re-examined its relevance in a rapidly evolving scientific and geo-political landscape. The BWC was born out of a universal moral conviction that disease must never be used as a weapon. 50 years later, this principle remains as vital as ever, but the complexities surrounding it have grown.
A clear theme ran through all the sessions. Public health and security are not two separate worlds. They depend on each other. A strong health system is a strong security system. We saw this during COVID-19. We see this again in every new outbreak that moves faster than our ability to detect or contain it.
For this reason, the Global South has been at the centre of the conversation. Many countries in the Global South face serious gaps—limited laboratories, slow surveillance, shortage of trained staff, and unequal access to vaccines and medicines. These are not just development challenges. They increase global vulnerability. A threat anywhere can spread everywhere.
But we also heard that the Global South is not just a region of challenges. It is a region of solutions. It has experience, resilience, and growing scientific strength. This conference highlighted that the future of global biosecurity cannot be shaped without the Global South. It must be shaped with the Global South and for the Global South.
India’s role came through strongly in this regard. Over the years, India has built significant national capacities. India is a major producer of vaccines and affordable medicines. India runs several BSL-3 and BSL-4 labs. India has strong biotechnology research networks, active disease surveillance systems, and digital health tools that reach millions. During COVID-19, India shared vaccines and medical supplies with over 100 countries. India continues to act as a reliable partner to the Global South.
The sessions in this conference covered a wide range of issues.
They looked at the progress made by the BWC. They discussed gaps that still remain. They highlighted the need for better verification and stronger institutional support. Experts from WHO and other international bodies explained how global health and global security have become more interconnected than ever.
The discussions gave us a clearer picture of the challenges across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. We heard about gaps in biosafety rules, shortages of trained staff, weak regulatory systems, and lessons from Ebola and COVID-19. We heard about how environmental pressures and animal health issues increase the risk of new diseases. These discussions made one point very clear: biological threats do not look the same in every region. Solutions must reflect local realities.
Our discussions also brought forward how quickly science is changing. Tools like gene editing, synthetic biology, and AI can greatly strengthen public health. But they can also be misused by non-state actors or by irresponsible actors. The pace of scientific change is now faster than the pace of global rules. This gap increases risks. Many speakers stressed the need for flexible, science-based oversight that keeps up with modern technology.
The simulation exercise was another important part of the conference. It showed how a crisis unfolds in real time. It showed how fast decisions must be made, and how delays, even small ones, can create much larger problems. It also showed the power of coordination. It brought forth the shared concerns about the misuse of the advances in science and technology.
From the sessions, five broad messages emerged.
First, the BWC needs stronger tools. It needs verification measures. It needs a process to monitor new scientific developments. It needs better institutional support. The world is very different from when the Convention was created. The BWC must reflect this change.
Second, capacity building must be practical and steady. Countries that lack labs, surveillance systems, and trained professionals cannot detect or respond to threats. Strengthening these systems helps the entire world.
Third, emerging technologies must be used responsibly. They can save lives, but they also carry risks. Countries need clear rules, better oversight, and open communication.
Fourth, cooperation must be reliable. Assistance during a biological event must be quick and free of politics. It must be delivered in real time, not only on paper.
Fifth, "One Health” is essential. Human health, animal health, and environmental health are deeply connected. Ignoring this link increases the risk of new diseases.
If there is one idea that ties all these points together, it is the need for trust. Trust in data. Trust in institutions. Trust between countries. Trust allows information to be shared early. Trust allows countries to support each other. Trust allows science to be used in safe and responsible ways. Without trust, even the best systems will fail.
As we conclude, let us leave with a sense of practical responsibility. The next 50 years of the BWC will depend on choices made now. We must strengthen the Convention. We must modernize its tools. We must support countries that need greater capacity. We must ensure that scientific progress benefits everyone.
As the External Affairs Minister stated yesterday, India stands ready to play its part, as a responsible nation, as a committed supporter of the BWC, and as a trusted partner of the Global South.
Let us move forward with clarity, cooperation, and purpose.
On behalf of the Government of India, I sincerely thank you all once again for joining us from different parts of the world for this conference and ensuring its success.
I hope the conversations that we started here will continue and inspire action.
Wishing you all safe travels.
Thank you very much.
New Delhi
December 02, 2025