IAEA Board of Governors, Item 9: Nuclear Safety, Security and Safeguards in Ukraine

15 September 2022

Chair,

Germany fully aligns itself with the statement of the European Union. Please let me make the following points in my national capacity:

Germany thanks the Director General and the IAEA staff for their steadfast commitment. We strongly endorse the importance of the Seven Pillars of Nuclear Safety and Security as the baseline of our joint efforts.

Germany will continue its bilateral long-term engagement to enhance nuclear security and safety in Ukraine, and stands ready to support DG Grossi and IAEA in all their efforts both in our national capacity but also as the current Presidency of the G7.

We call on Russia to immediately restore full control of the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant to its rightful sovereign owner and operator, Ukraine.

Germany remains profoundly concerned by the seizure of Ukrainian nuclear facilities and other actions by Russian Armed Forces or National Guard that pose a serious threat to the safety and security of these facilities, significantly raising the risk of a nuclear accident or incident, and endangering the population of Ukraine, neighboring states and the international community.

IAEA staff must be given access to all nuclear facilities in Ukraine, safely and without impediment, and to engage directly and without interference with the Ukrainian personnel responsible for the operation of these facilities. The personal safety of all individuals implementing these efforts must be guaranteed.

We encourage all Member States of the Board to support the resolution as being tabled by Poland and Canada.

Thank You, Chair