Vienna, Austria – Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability Affairs, Abdullah Balala, delivered the UAE’s speech during the extraordinary meeting of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency. Which was held in the wake of terrorist attacks by drones coming from Iraqi territory. One of which targeted the Barakah nuclear power plant. It hit an electric generator outside the internal perimeter of the station, without recording any injuries or any impact on radiation safety levels.
Members of the International Atomic Energy Agency praised the responsible and transparent approach taken by the competent national authorities in the UAE in dealing with the terrorist attack incident. Emphasizing their appreciation for the close and constructive cooperation shown by the UAE with the International Atomic Energy Agency.
They also commended the measures taken in accordance with the highest standards of nuclear security and safety, reflecting the UAE’s firm commitment to transparency and international responsibility at the regional and international levels.
The extraordinary meeting was held based on a request submitted by Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and Saudi Arabia. Reflecting a shared commitment to protecting peaceful nuclear facilities and ensuring the integrity and credibility of the international framework for nuclear safety and security.
international visit
The extraordinary meeting was followed by a visit by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi to the UAE earlier this week. Which included his visit to the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, and his meeting with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The visit affirmed international confidence in the UAE’s peaceful nuclear program and highlighted the strong strategic partnership between the UAE and the International Atomic Energy Agency.
dangerous escalation
During the meeting, Alaa reiterated the UAE’s condemnation in the strongest terms of the terrorist attacks targeting civilian nuclear infrastructure. He stressed that it represents a dangerous escalation, an unacceptable aggression, and a direct threat to state security, and that targeting peaceful nuclear power plants constitutes a clear violation of international law, the United Nations Charter, and the provisions of international humanitarian law. Because of the serious risks it may pose to civilians, the environment, and regional and international security.
Relevant international standards and agreements, including the principles of the International Atomic Energy Agency and its relevant resolutions, also emphasize the need to protect peaceful nuclear facilities. And not to expose its safety and security to any hostile acts or military threats.
He stressed that the extraordinary meeting is not only related to the incident that occurred in the UAE, but also to the protection, integrity and credibility of the international framework for nuclear safety and security. Explaining that protecting nuclear facilities designated for peaceful purposes represents a well-established international principle and a collective obligation borne by the international community.
He warned that attacks on peaceful nuclear facilities pose serious risks and could lead to serious humanitarian, environmental and economic consequences that transcend national borders. Stressing that although no radiological effects occurred, the absence of damage does not reduce the seriousness of the attack.
He stressed that the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant remained safe and stable, and that the competent national authorities responded immediately and implemented all necessary safety measures in accordance with the highest international standards and under the safeguards framework of the International Atomic Energy Agency. All reactor units maintained their safe condition, and radiation levels remained within normal limits. No radioactive traces were detected.
He explained that the accident demonstrated the strength and solidity of the Barakah plant, reiterating the UAE’s commitment to the highest standards of safety, security and nuclear guarantees.
gratitude and appreciation
The UAE expressed its appreciation to Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and Saudi Arabia for supporting the call to hold the extraordinary meeting. She also expressed her thanks to the member states that expressed their solidarity with the UAE. She also welcomed efforts to issue a joint statement affirming solidarity with the UAE and emphasizing the importance of protecting peaceful nuclear facilities from hostilities and threats.
Abdullah Balalaa stressed that the UAE will not hesitate to protect its security and sovereignty under any circumstances, and that it reserves all its sovereign, legal, diplomatic and military rights in the face of any threat, claim or hostile act. To ensure the protection of its sovereignty, national security, and the integrity of its territory, citizens, residents, and visitors, in accordance with international law.
At the conclusion of his speech, Al-Alaa called on the international community to condemn terrorist attacks on civilian nuclear infrastructure and strengthen efforts aimed at protecting peaceful nuclear facilities. In addition to maintaining confidence in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy as a fundamental contributor to energy security, sustainable development and prosperity.
The UAE renewed its full support for the International Atomic Energy Agency and its commitment to working with the agency and member states. To promote the highest standards of nuclear safety, security and safeguards worldwide.
