Vienna: A delegation from the Kingdom of Bahrain, led by Brigadier General Samir Ahmed Al-Zayani, Vice-Chairman of the National Committee for the Prohibition of Weapons of Mass Destruction, participated in the 70th session of the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) held from September 14-18.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the delegation included Bahrain's Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Abdullah Abdulatif Abdullah, along with representatives from relevant ministries and agencies. At the conference, Al-Zayani congratulated Ambassador Gustavo Zlauvinen of Argentina on his election as President of the conference and expressed Bahrain's readiness to cooperate for the conference's success.
The Bahraini delegation expressed appreciation to Ambassador Peter Burian, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, and the Agency's Secretariat for their ongoing efforts in fulfilling the Agency's mandate. Bahrain welcomed Timor-Leste's admission to the IAEA and reaffirmed its commitment to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), supporting the IAEA's role in implementing safeguards and promoting nuclear security.
Al-Zayani acknowledged the support provided by the IAEA and the interest in developing a civilian nuclear programme with options such as small modular reactors. He praised the cooperation in radiation protection, nuclear law, and capacity-building, aiming to ensure the safe use of nuclear applications.
The delegation condemned Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting Bahrain, GCC states, and Jordan, highlighting the violation of sovereignty and threat to regional stability. It urged Iran to cooperate with the IAEA and fulfill its obligations to build confidence and reduce tensions.
Bahrain's delegation welcomed the IAEA Board of Governors' decision to close the review of the safeguards agreement with Syria, viewing it as progress in Syria's cooperation with the Agency. The delegation reiterated Bahrain's support for establishing a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and expressed regret over the lack of consensus at the 2026 NPT Review Conference.
The importance of overcoming differences to enhance non-proliferation efforts was stressed, including universal adherence to the NPT and comprehensive safeguards. In conclusion, Bahrain reaffirmed its support for the IAEA and commitment to promoting the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.