Chair,
Non-proliferation lies at the core of the Treaty and remains indispensable to international peace and security. At a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, erosion of arms control frameworks and rapid technological change, full implementation of non-proliferation obligations by all States Parties is more important than ever. The credibility and integrity of the NPT depend on this shared responsibility.
The IAEA is the backbone of the global nuclear verification regime. Its independent, technical, and impartial assurance of the peaceful nature of nuclear activities is essential. Norway underscores that full, timely and proactive cooperation with the IAEA is a legal obligation under the Treaty. Safeguards implementation is not optional or selective.
Chair,
Norway considers a Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement together with an Additional Protocol to be the current verification standard. The Additional Protocol significantly enhances the Agency’s ability to verify the absence of undeclared nuclear material and activities. We consequently strongly encourage all States that have not yet done so to conclude, bring into force, and implement an Additional Protocol, and to update Small Quantities Protocols where applicable. Universalisation of the Additional Protocol would represent a concrete strengthening of the non-proliferation pillar.
Effective verification depends on a strong and independent IAEA, supported by predictable and sufficient funding, access to expertise, and the ability to adapt to a more complex environment. Norway supports efforts to ensure that the Agency has sufficient budget and is equipped to fulfil its growing responsibilities, including through establishing a Member State Support Programme for safeguards in 2023.
Chair,
Robust national implementation measures are also essential. Effective export control systems help prevent the spread of sensitive materials and technologies, while improving and facilitating cooperation for peaceful use. We encourage all States to strengthen national legislation and enforcement, and to align with internationally recognised guidelines, including those of the Nuclear Suppliers Group and the Zangger Committee.
Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has highlighted the serious risks to nuclear safety, security and non-proliferation during armed conflict. Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure are putting nuclear safety and security under severe pressure. Military activities affecting nuclear facilities, including the drone attack on Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant and the occupation of Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, are unacceptable.
Norway is increasing its support to Ukraine to prevent nuclear accidents and safeguard electricity production. For 2026, approximately USD 52 million has been allocated for this purpose. Norway strongly supports IAEA’s efforts to uphold nuclear safety and security in Ukraine, including its continuous presence and framework of indispensable principles.
Chair,
Norway has long been deeply concerned about Iran’s nuclear programme, particularly its enrichment activities far beyond civilian needs, the erosion of IAEA access, and the resulting loss of continuity of knowledge. However, Norway believes the situation in Iran must be resolved through diplomacy, not force, and we stress, that nuclear facilities must never be targeted under any circumstances, as any military action endangering such facilities poses grave risks.
We strongly condemn the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s continued pursuit of nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes. The DPRK must return to full compliance with the NPT and IAEA safeguards. Statements made by the Russian Federation, describing denuclearization of DPRK as a “closed issue”, are not acceptable and contrary to numerous Security Council resolutions.
Chair,
Nuclear security and non-proliferation are closely interconnected. Preventing non-state actors from acquiring radioactive material remains a shared responsibility. Norway underscores the importance of full implementation of resolution 1540 and relevant international legal instruments.
In conclusion, this Review Conference must send a clear message: non-proliferation commitments are non-negotiable. Strengthening safeguards, supporting the IAEA, addressing compliance challenges, and reinforcing national implementation are essential to preserving confidence in the Treaty.
Thank you