Joint Briefing on ICONS-2024 International Conference on Nuclear Safety

Vienna, The Gulf Observer: In a joint briefing held at the UN Office in Vienna, Mukhtar Tleuberdi, Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the International Organizations, and Ian Biggs, Permanent Representative of Australia, outlined the preparations for the upcoming International Conference on Nuclear Safety (ICONS-2024) under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as reported by the press service of the Kazakh Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Scheduled to take place in Vienna from May 20 to 24, the ICONS-2024 International Conference will be jointly chaired by Kazakhstan and Australia. This event is poised to be a cornerstone in Vienna, convening heads of foreign services, relevant ministries, and over 2,000 nuclear security experts from 178 IAEA Member States.

Building on the successes of the previous ICONS-2020, the forthcoming conference aims to provide a platform to showcase the remarkable achievements of IAEA Member States in the realm of nuclear safety and security. The positive momentum in the universalization of the Agency’s legally binding and non-binding instruments in this domain signals a heightened commitment by States to enhance the oversight of nuclear and other radioactive materials.

The symbolism of Kazakhstan chairing this authoritative forum in the year marking the 30th anniversary of its IAEA membership is noteworthy. Kazakhstan, renowned as a key member of the Agency and a global leader in uranium production, brings extensive experience in ensuring the safety and security of nuclear facilities. The country also hosts a unique facility on its territory—the IAEA Low Enriched Uranium Bank.

Tasked with a crucial responsibility, Kazakhstan and Australia will jointly lead the negotiation process to develop the final document of the conference—the ICONS-2024 Ministerial Declaration. This declaration is intended to serve as a roadmap, furthering the peaceful use of nuclear energy, reinforcing the physical security of nuclear facilities, and facilitating the effective exchange of experience and knowledge through international cooperation.

As the international community collaborates to address critical issues in nuclear safety, ICONS-2024 stands as a testament to the commitment of nations to advancing nuclear security and fostering peaceful applications of nuclear energy on a global scale. The conference holds the promise of shaping the future trajectory of international efforts in this vital field.