OSCE project will help Kazakhstan dispose of "melange" toxic missile fuel

VIENNA, 31 October 2005 - A group of OSCE experts begins a five-day visit to Kazakhstan today aimed at helping the country recycle highly explosive missile fuel, commonly known as "melange."

The OSCE project is intended to provide technical and financial assistance to find a suitable way to carry out the disposal of the toxic substance, which poses a potential threat to human health and the environment.

The study conducted during the visit will allow to determine the quantity and characteristic of the "melange," the processing technology available in the region and internationally, and offer a cost and time-frame for recycling or disposal of the fuel component.

Based on the findings and recommendations of the experts, the OSCE will seek extra-budgetary contributions to implement the project.

The project will be managed by the OSCE Centre in Almaty.