VIENNA, 26 September (BelTA) – The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is ready to assist developing countries in implementing their nuclear programs, IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano said at the 60th regular session of the IAEA General Conference in Vienna on 26 September, BelTA has learned.
“Nuclear power should not be the preserve of developed countries. Developing countries should also be able to use it. Nuclear power can make a significant contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy security, while delivering energy in the large and growing quantities needed for development,” Yukiya Amano said. He noted that some 30 developing countries are considering introducing nuclear power into their energy balance.
“If countries opt for nuclear power, we support them actively at every step of their journey so they can use it safely, securely and sustainably,” Yukiya Amano stressed.
He pointed out that over the past 60 years, the IAEA has demonstrated the major role of nuclear science and technologies in sustainable development. As an example, he cited the improved access to effective cancer treatment, the progress in the goals concerning climate change, and production of new varieties of wheat and rice using nuclear techniques. “By making nuclear science and technology available to improve human well-being and prosperity, we have made a real difference to the lives of millions of people throughout the world. We have also made a unique contribution to international peace and security through our work to verify that nuclear material remains in peaceful uses,” Yukiya Amano said.
The 60th regular session of the IAEA General Conference opened in Vienna on 26 September. It brought together delegations of more than 160 countries, including Belarus. The Belarusian delegation is led by Deputy Energy Minister Mikhail Mikhadyuk. Its members will meet with IAEA Deputy Director General, representatives of the Hungarian Atomic Energy Authority, the delegation of the Federal Environmental, Industrial and Nuclear Supervision Service of Russia (Rostechnadzor), and others.
Some 20 countries, including Belarus, the United Kingdom, the United States, Russia, Germany, Canada, China, and Japan, will showcase their stands at the Vienna International Center as part of the forum. The Belarusian stand will inform visitors on the progress in the construction of the Belarusian nuclear power plant (BelNPP), the state of affairs at the construction site, the training of specialists for the BelNPP, and the operation of the nuclear energy information centers in Minsk and Ostrovets.
