Pretoria – The International Conference on Nuclear Security has adopted a declaration emphasising that while the responsibility for nuclear security rests entirely with individual member states, the IAEA plays a central role in strengthening the nuclear security framework globally.
The declaration also emphasised the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in leading coordination of international activities in the field of nuclear security.
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane led a South African delegation to the conference in Vienna, Austria, organised by the IAEA.
Delivering South Africa's national statement to the conference, Nkoana-Mashabane said South Africa has worked with the IAEA to strengthen nuclear security in the country.
"South Africa, like the majority of member states, attaches great importance to the benefits derived from the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
“Nuclear energy provides not only for the expanded opportunity to generate power needed for our development. We also derive infinite value from its application to health, nutrition and agriculture,” said Nkoana-Mashabane
Nkoana-Mashabane took advantage of her visit to Vienna to hold bilateral discussions with various members of the IAEA, such as Director General of the IAEA, Yukiya Amano and Executive Secretary-elect of the Comprehensive Test-Ban Treaty Organisation, Lassina Zerbo, among others. - SAnews.gov.za
