Mr. President,
Norway thanks Director General Grossi for presenting the report of the International
Atomic Energy Agency. We align ourselves with the resolution and reaffirm our strong
support for the IAEA and its independent technical mandate.
At a time of growing geopolitical tension, the role of the IAEA is more important than
ever. The Agency is indispensable for verifying States’ non-proliferation obligations and
ensuring that all countries can benefit from the peaceful uses of nuclear technology. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons remains the cornerstone of global efforts towards nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.
Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine and its military presence at the
Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant create grave risks to nuclear safety and security. Norway supports the IAEA’s continued presence and assistance in Ukraine, the Director
General’s Seven Indispensable Pillars and the five concrete principles for Zaporizhzhia.
Russia must withdraw its forces from Ukraine’s internationally recognized territory and
return the plant to full Ukrainian control.
Strong safeguards are essential to international confidence. A comprehensive
safeguards agreement together with an Additional Protocol constitutes the current
verification standard. Norway calls on all States that have not yet done so to conclude
and bring into force an Additional Protocol. This is becoming increasingly important as
interest in nuclear energy grows and new technologies emerge.
The IAEA also contributes directly to sustainable development through applications in
areas including health, food security, the environment and energy. Norway supports the
Agency’s Technical Cooperation Programme and its work to make the benefits of
nuclear science and technology available to all, within robust frameworks for safety,
security and safeguards.
The Agency’s responsibilities and the expectations of Member States continue to grow.
Norway therefore underscores the need for a strong, independent and adequately
funded IAEA. Member States must ensure that the Agency’s resources are
commensurate with its mandate. Growing expectations in the fields of safeguards,
safety, security and peaceful uses cannot be met indefinitely through efficiencies alone.
Norway will continue to support the IAEA politically, technically and financially. We
encourage all Member States to support the Agency’s work and the resolution before us.
Thank you.