Albanian PM pacifies protestors over Syrian chemical arm concern

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama said Wednesday his country will never accept the destruction of Syrian chemical weapons on its soil if the country's environment and integrity are threatened. Assuring concerned Albanians that "there is no reason for panic," Rama told a national anti-corruption conference that it has not yet been decided whether the dismantling of Syria's chemical weapons will take place on its land. Albania, along with Belgium, Norway and France, has been contacted by the United States for help to destroy Syria's entire chemical arsenal, estimated at about 1,000 tons, according to media reports. Some Albanians protested against the potential move, saying it would damage the environment and thwart efforts to promote Albania as an emerging tourist destination. "There is still no full plan or agreement with the countries involved in this process," Rama confirmed. "I really understand all of those who are now protesting on this issue," the prime minister said, adding that Albania would continue discussions with the United States over the handling of the chemical weaponry. Under the UN Security Council Resolution 2118, passed in September, Syria's entire chemical arsenal is to be destroyed by June 30, 2014. Norway refused to help destroy the arms on its soil late last month, saying the schedule was too tight.