The Director General of the IAEA told delegates at the opening of the 68th General Conference today that “nothing is impossible”, despite the current challenges the world faces.
“The role and the mission of the IAEA is indispensable. And yes, we are at a time of unprecedented tensions and uncertainties, but that should not make us forget the absolute importance of our work here,” he explained.
Rafael Mariano Grossi was addressing participants during the opening session of the global conference for nuclear cooperation, at the IAEA headquarters in Vienna.
Watch the opening of the IAEA General Conference.
Read the full written statement, as prepared for delivery
The Director General spoke of the wide remit of the Agency. “It is in preventing the erosion of the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons regime that has underpinned peace and security conditions in the world. It is also important to make sure that nuclear safety and security prevail during times of war. It is also trying to ensure that through the efficient application of science and technology through nuclear, we can diminish poverty and difficulties around the world.”
Mr Grossi explained the progress of Agency’s flagship initiatives, designed to address the world’s biggest problems, from hunger to plastic pollution.