Press Release 2005/04
20 July 2005 | IAEA Director General, Mohamed ElBaradei has welcomed the US-India agreement to embark on full civil nuclear energy cooperation and to work to enhance nuclear non-proliferation and security.
"Out of the box thinking and active participation by all members of the international community are important if we are to advance nuclear arms control, non-proliferation, safety and security, and tackle new threats such as illicit trafficking in sensitive nuclear technology and the risks of nuclear terrorism," Dr. ElBaradei said.
Dr. ElBaradei has also been urging all countries using nuclear energy to apply the highest safety standards possible. "Making advanced civil nuclear technology available to all countries will contribute to the enhancement of nuclear safety and security," he said.
Dr. ElBaradei said that India´s intention to identify and place all its civilian nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards and sign and adhere to an Additional Protocol with respect to civilian nuclear facilities is a welcome development. "I have always advocated concrete and practical steps towards the universal application of IAEA safeguards," Dr. ElBaradei said.
Mark Gwozdecky
Director and Spokesperson
Division of Public Information
[43-1] 2600-21270
[43] 699-165-21270 (mobile)
m.gwozdecky@iaea.org
Melissa Fleming
Head, Media & Outreach Section
Spokesperson
Division of Public Information
[43-1] 2600-21275
[43] 699-165-21275 (mobile)
m.fleming@iaea.org
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) serves as the world's foremost intergovernmental forum for scientific and technical co-operation in the peaceful use of nuclear technology. Established as an autonomous organization under the United Nations (UN) in 1957, the IAEA carries out programmes to maximize the useful contribution of nuclear technology to society while verifying its peaceful use.
NOTE TO EDITORS: For additional information visit the Press Section of the IAEA's website (http://www.iaea.org/Resources/Journalists/), or call the IAEA's Division of Public Information at (431) 2600-21270.