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Latest Statements

New York, 22 September 2011 - Secretary-General's statement to the press on the High-Level Meeting on Nuclear Safety and Security

Today, I convened a High-level Meeting on Nuclear Safety and Security. I am grateful for the active participation of a number of Heads of State or Government and other high-level dignitaries.

The meeting built upon action by the international community to enhance nuclear safety and the international emergency preparedness and response framework in the wake of the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. The discussion demonstrated the resolve of the international community to promote nuclear safety. In doing so, participants reaffirmed their strong support for the International Atomic Energy Agency in continuing to lead these efforts.

In advance of the meeting, I issued a UN system-wide study on the implications of the accident, with the close cooperation of relevant international organizations. At the close of the meeting, I provided a Chair's Summary, which reflects my understanding of the views expressed by Member States. In my summary, I also proposed some follow-up actions.

To address the implications of the Fukushima accident, I have called on Member States to ensure that the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation has the necessary capacity and resources to accomplish its task. Member States should also consider the intersection between the issues of nuclear energy, climate change and sustainable development at the Rio+20 Conference on Sustainable Development.

To strengthen the link between the international humanitarian coordination system and the international nuclear response system, I will seek to enhance the capacity of the organizations of the Inter-Agency Standing Committee.

To raise awareness and improve nuclear safeguards, safety, and security, I encourage the G8 Countries to further develop the International Initiative on 3S-Based Nuclear Energy Infrastructure.

To address the nexus between nuclear safety and nuclear security, I encourage the relevant fora to take up these matters -- including the 2012 Seoul Nuclear Security Summit and the Preparatory Committee for the 2015 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. I have also called for steps to ensure the universal application of the international conventions on nuclear safety and security.

The effects of nuclear accidents respect no borders. It is a matter of global concern which requires global response. To adequately safeguard our people, we must have strong international consensus and action as well as strong international safety standards. The message has been clear and unified: we cannot accept business as usual – and we all have a stake in getting it right.

Building on the success of today's meeting, I am confident that we will continue to achieve significant progress on strengthening nuclear safety and emergency preparedness.

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Statements on 22 September 2011