The 68th annual session of the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) begins in Vienna.
Representatives of the organisation’s member states will discuss, among other issues, nuclear security in Ukraine, implementation of measures under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty in North Korea, and implementation of IAEA measures in the Middle East, APA reports citing TASS.
The event is traditionally held at the Vienna International Centre (VIC) and runs until 20 September. In parallel with the General Conference, a scientific forum on food security will be held at the VIC on 17-18 September. Participants will discuss the use of nuclear technology in agriculture. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi will deliver a speech at the opening of the General Conference and the scientific forum.
Russia plans to organise six side events in face-to-face and online formats throughout the week within the framework of the General Conference. Topics include attracting women to the nuclear industry, building research reactors and reducing carbon emissions by increasing the use of nuclear energy.
The General Conference, the IAEA’s highest body, is attended by representatives of the organisation’s 178 member states. They adopt the budget and consider matters submitted for consideration by member states, the Director-General or the IAEA Board of Governors. In addition to the General Conference, the IAEA’s governing bodies are the Board of Governors, comprising 35 countries, which directs the practical activities of the agency, and the secretariat, which runs day-to-day business.
