42nd IAEA General Conference

Germany, Dr. Axel Gerlach, Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology

He opened by noting the changing energy policy in Germany and the government’s decision to phase out nuclear energy. Discussion with nuclear plant owners is focusing on scheduling the decommissioning of reactors, with timetables being negotiated. He underscored that the IAEA will continue to play an important role for Germany, and described the work in areas of safeguards and safety as indispensable. Of importance to his country is the organization structure of the Agency; its close cooperation with media and science; and establishment of priorities. On verification matters, he expressed confidence that Germany can conclude ratification of the Additional Protocol towards the end of the year, and he welcomed the steps for integrating the strengthened safeguards system. Looking to the NPT review conference in 2000, he appealed to States to join the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty and support other steps of disarmament to improve prospects of a successful outcome. In particular, he noted negotiations on a cut-off treaty for production of weapons materials. On matters of safety, he singled out Agency safety reviews of nuclear plants as contributing significantly to national efforts. Regarding waste management, he said Germany is reviewing its concept and requirements, and is seeking to cooperate with the Agency and its members to develop commonly acce[ted waste safety criteria.

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Germany, Dr. Axel Gerlach, Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology



He opened by noting the changing energy policy in Germany and the government’s decision to phase out nuclear energy. Discussion with nuclear plant owners is focusing on scheduling the decommissioning of reactors, with timetables being negotiated. He underscored that the IAEA will continue to play an important role for Germany, and described the work in areas of safeguards and safety as indispensable. Of importance to his country is the organization structure of the Agency; its close cooperation with media and science; and establishment of priorities. On verification matters, he expressed confidence that Germany can conclude ratification of the Additional Protocol towards the end of the year, and he welcomed the steps for integrating the strengthened safeguards system. Looking to the NPT review conference in 2000, he appealed to States to join the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty and support other steps of disarmament to improve prospects of a successful outcome. In particular, he noted negotiations on a cut-off treaty for production of weapons materials. On matters of safety, he singled out Agency safety reviews of nuclear plants as contributing significantly to national efforts. Regarding waste management, he said Germany is reviewing its concept and requirements, and is seeking to cooperate with the Agency and its members to develop commonly acce[ted waste safety criteria.