Syria asks to convert chemical arms facilities for peaceful use

Syria has asked the OPCW for permission to convert for peaceful use some of the facilities declared under its weapons program, an official at the organization said on Friday.

The request would have to be approved by the OPCW's executive council. "The Syrian foreign minister has submitted a list of 12-15 'items' such as power stations, buildings and storage facilities the country wants to use for non-military purposes," said the official, who asked not to be named. (Reuters)