New york: The State of Kuwait expressed its appreciation for International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi's report and efforts in promoting peaceful nuclear use and ensuring global safety criteria. Third Secretary at Kuwait's Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, Abdulaziz Al-Saeedi, made this statement during the 80th United Nations General Assembly session on the IAEA's Annual Report (Item 89) late Wednesday.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Al-Saeedi reiterated Kuwait's support for the IAEA's role in enabling member states to utilize nuclear sciences and technologies for sustainable development. He emphasized Kuwait's commitment to cooperating with the IAEA since joining in 1964, viewing this partnership as vital for advancing national capabilities in health, agriculture, water, and energy sectors.
Al-Saeedi highlighted the national program of technical cooperation for 2020-2025, noting its contribution to national development plans and the ongoing collaboration with the IAEA to establish the 2026-2035 framework in alignment with Kuwait's development vision.
The Kuwaiti diplomat stressed the importance of maintaining a global nuclear safety system to ensure international stability amid rising tensions and lack of trust in multilateral mechanisms. He called for transparency and an independent technical role for the IAEA under the nuclear non-proliferation system, urging adherence to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and related agreements.
Al-Saeedi encouraged countries that have not joined the NPT additional protocol to do so, emphasizing its role in enhancing the IAEA's access to information and building confidence in peaceful nuclear activities.
Addressing Iran's nuclear issue, Al-Saeedi underscored the need for transparent cooperation with the IAEA to safeguard regional security. He advocated for a Middle East free of nuclear weapons and all weapons of mass destruction, referencing the 1995, 2000, and 2010 NPT Reviews.
Al-Saeedi also urged the international community to compel Israel to join the NPT and subject its nuclear facilities to the IAEA's safeguards, citing concerns over regional and international security threats.
Looking ahead to the 11th NPT Review Conference in April 2026, Al-Saeedi emphasized the need to address previous failures related to Middle East and regional security issues. He concluded by stressing the importance of strengthening the multilateral framework, ensuring transparency, and upholding international obligations to support the IAEA's independence and technical capabilities.