VIENNA: Kuwait’s Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna, Talal Al-Fassam, on Wednesday reaffirmed Kuwait’s commitment to enhancing technical cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and supporting its programs in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Speaking at the 69th session of the IAEA General Conference, Al-Fassam highlighted Kuwait’s ongoing collaboration with the agency, including the preparation of the fourth National Cooperation Program Framework (2026-2035), which outlines national priorities and addresses the needs of relevant stakeholders to strengthen bilateral technical cooperation.

He noted that Kuwait hosts four regional service and cooperation centers in partnership with the IAEA, covering medicine, marine environment and radiation protection. Additionally, the Environmental and Life Sciences Research Center at the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) has been re-designated as an IAEA cooperation center to monitor radioactive contamination in regional waters. Al-Fassam also pointed out that KISR’s Radioactivity Measurement Laboratory has been accredited as a regional resource center for environmental radiation monitoring within the framework of the Arab States in Western Asia (ARASIA), following a memorandum of understanding signed during the conference.

Highlighting last year’s achievements, the Ambassador cited key joint projects, including initiatives to combat and treat cancer, monitor marine microplastic pollution and assess its impact on seafood safety. He stressed Kuwait’s commitment to nuclear security through its Integrated National Nuclear Security Plan, which continues to strengthen the country’s infrastructure in this vital field. Al-Fassam praised the efforts of IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi and agency experts in ensuring the safety and security of nuclear facilities worldwide.

Kuwaiti delegation, headed by Ambassador Talal Al-Fassam with the Director of the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Dr Faisal Al-Humaidan.

Ambassador Al-Fassam reaffirmed Kuwait’s stance supporting the right of all states to peaceful nuclear energy under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). He called on Iran to continue transparent cooperation with the IAEA to resolve outstanding issues and welcomed the recent agreement to resume joint cooperation between Iran and the agency under Egyptian auspices, describing it as a constructive step.

He also warned against the proliferation of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction, urging North Korea to comply with international treaties and Security Council resolutions and to cooperate fully with the IAEA. Kuwait further expressed appreciation for progress in Syria’s cooperation with the agency, leading to the resolution of issues related to the Deir ez-Zor site in line with international obligations.

Al-Fassam reiterated Kuwait’s commitment to establishing a nuclear-weapon-free zone and eliminating all weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East. He pointedly criticized the Zionist entity for refusing to join the NPT and for denying comprehensive IAEA safeguards on its nuclear facilities, stressing the need for international pressure on the occupying power. The Ambassador condemned the Zionist entity’s ongoing aggression against Qatar, describing it as a threat to regional security and stability, and reaffirmed Kuwait’s support for measures taken by Qatar to safeguard its sovereignty and protect citizens and residents.

Addressing the escalating humanitarian crisis in Palestine, Al-Fassam highlighted the unprecedented suffering of the Palestinian people, including genocide, displacement and siege, particularly in the Gaza Strip. He urged the international community and the Security Council to act decisively to end these practices, halt collective punishment, and prevent further expansion of settlements. Concluding his address, Ambassador Al-Fassam reaffirmed Kuwait’s ongoing support for the IAEA’s programs, emphasizing the country’s contributions to sustainable development and the enhancement of nuclear safety and security systems. He extended gratitude to the Conference Presidency and the agency for their continued efforts. — KUNA