Kuwait supports removing Syria's nuclear safeguards file from the IAEA agenda
Bahbahani: Tangible progress in resolving outstanding issues and constructive cooperation from the Syrian government with the Agency
The State of Kuwait expressed its welcome for the positive results and developments contained in the latest report by International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi, which reflected tangible progress in clarifying and resolving matters related to safeguards in the Syrian Arab Republic.
This was stated in a speech delivered by Ali Bahbahani, Third Secretary of the Permanent Delegation of the State of Kuwait to the International Organizations in Vienna, on Wednesday, during the current session of the IAEA Board of Governors, held from September 7 to 11. The discussion fell under the agenda item titled "Implementation of the safeguards agreement concluded under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons in the Syrian Arab Republic."
Bahbahani praised the constructive cooperation and transparency demonstrated by the new Syrian government with the Agency, as well as the practical steps taken to fulfill its obligations under the safeguards agreement, including the submission of required information, data, and reports concerning nuclear materials and relevant design information.
He stated that this positive approach and close cooperation between the two sides represent a significant development, contributing to enhancing trust and supporting the Agency’s capacity to carry out its technical and verification mandate, in accordance with the provisions of the safeguards agreement and related rules and procedures.
He added that the Agency’s confirmation that the Syrian side has been able to clarify and resolve outstanding safeguards questions, previously reported to the Board of Governors, constitutes an important step forward in addressing this file.
Kuwait reaffirmed its support for efforts aimed at removing the item on the implementation of the safeguards agreement in the Syrian Arab Republic from the Board of Governors’ agenda and concluding its consideration within the Board, given the progress achieved and the clarifications and resolutions of outstanding issues outlined in the Director General’s report.
At the same time, he emphasized the importance of maintaining the existing legal and technical frameworks that enable the Agency to continue implementing the safeguards agreement with Syria, in line with its obligations.
Kuwait expressed its hope that this development would serve as a positive model of what sincere and constructive cooperation between the Agency and member states can achieve, and that it would contribute to strengthening trust in the safeguards system and supporting international efforts to preserve global security and peace.
Kuwait renewed its appreciation for the Director General and the Agency Secretariat for their professional and balanced efforts, reaffirming its support for continued cooperation between the Agency and the Syrian government to ensure the effective implementation of the safeguards agreement, enhance mutual trust, and pave the way for the final closure of this file.
