General Assembly: 40th plenary meeting, 80th session General Assembly Date: 14 November 2025 Language: English Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/en/ga/80/40 Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations. --- GA · PGA [0:04]: The 40th plenary meeting of the General Assembly is called to order. The Assembly will resume its consideration of agenda item 89, entitled "Report of the International Atomic Energy Agency", to continue the debate on the item. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of El Salvador. El Salvador [0:50]: Thank you, President. Allow me to begin by expressing the thanks of El Salvador for the convening of this plenary debate on the annual report of the International Atomic Energy Agency. My country is proud to participate in this forum, which reflects our steadfast commitment to the founding principles of the agency, atoms for peace, development, and international cooperation. El Salvador reiterates It's recognition of the work of the IAEA under the leadership of the Director General, Rafael Mariano Grossi, particularly in nuclear security, radiological protection, peaceful uses of nuclear science, combating cancer, food security and human capacity building. El Salvador believes that the implementation of a nuclear energy program stands as a strategic tool to allow us to reach our national development goals. Nuclear energy represents an alternative to guarantee a reliable, accessible, and environmentally friendly energy supply for future generations. With this in mind, in 2024, the legislature adopted, with a broad consensus, the atomic energy law, making us the first Central American country to adopt a comprehensive legal framework in this area. This law regulates all activities throughout the lifecycle of nuclear fuel and guarantees the highest standards of safety, radiological protection, transparency, and exclusively peaceful use. To implement this vision, the government established an agency to implement the nuclear energy program in El Salvador. This is under the Radio Lemper Commission. It is responsible for strategic planning, carrying out feasibility studies for a nuclear electric plant, and training human talent. In accordance with the international legal framework, in 2024, El Salvador ratified and deposited at the IAEA the following key instruments: the Convention on Nuclear Security, the Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for Damage, and the Safeguards and Immunities Agreement. Further, as part of the commitments under the Convention on Nuclear Security, El Salvador presented its first national report. This sets out our legal framework, security measures, and institutional mechanisms to allow us to guarantee the future functioning of nuclear facilities in a safe and responsible manner. We are currently implementing our national programmatic framework for 2024 to 2029. Under this, we have adopted 4 projects. for a cooperation framework with the IAEA for the biennium 2026 to 2027. This covers areas such as health, energy, environment and water management. To date, almost 200 Salvadoran professionals have been trained by the IAEA through regional workshops, regional and interregional projects. in areas such as nuclear law, radiological safety, nuclear medicine, cancer, agriculture, food security, managing water resources and the environment, as well as strategic planning and energy. El Salvador would like to thank the IAEA for its trust in the country to allow it to be the headquarters of activities such as a regional course on establishing a national position for a new nuclear energy program that was held in July this year. This allowed us to train national and regional level professionals. And in November 2025 in San Salvador, we will host a regional meeting on energy planning following the methodology climate, land and water. This falls under the ACO framework. We would like to take this opportunity to express our readiness to host similar activities in the future. On the margins of the 69th General Conference of the IEA, we reaffirmed the Regional Framework Agreement. Since 2021, we have been actively involved in this regional mechanism. In 2024, our country received a financial contribution under AECAL, which we have used to strengthen scientific databases, provide technical materials, and to organize regional events and ensure the participation of national experts. We reaffirm our commitment to the IAEA's technical fund. For 2025, we made a voluntary contribution, and we have pledged to also contribute in 2026. My country maintains an aspiration to join the Board of Governors of the IAEA for 2024 to 2028. We are convinced that we can provide a perspective from developing countries that have opted for the peaceful, safe and responsible use of nuclear energy. El Salvador would like to conclude this statement by paying tribute posthumous tribute to Ambassador Julia Vallatoro Talio, who was the permanent representative of El Salvador to international bodies headquartered in Vienna, who chaired the Group of Friends of Women in Nuclear Energy. headquartered in Vienna. Her leadership underscores the relevance of the full, effective and meaningful participation of women in the nuclear sphere and reaffirmed El Salvador's commitment to the equality and inclusion of women in science and nuclear technology. Thank you very much. GA · PGA [7:37]: I thank the distinguished representative of El Salvador. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kazakhstan. Kyrgyzstan [8:00]: Mr. President, distinguished delegates, at the outset, allow me to express our sincere appreciation to Director General Rafael Grossi for his comprehensive and insightful report. We commend his tireless efforts in advancing the mission of the International Atomic Energy Agency in the fields of peaceful uses of nuclear energy, nuclear safety, and nonproliferation. The Kyrgyz Republic fully supports the goals and principles enshrined in the IAEA Statute. We highly value the Agency's vital role in strengthening the nuclear and radiation safety, providing technical assistance and fostering international cooperation in the peaceful application of atomic energy. In recent years, the Kyrgyz Republic, in close partnership with international organizations and financial institutions, has achieved the tangible progress in addressing issue of radiation and environmental safety. Environmental protection and sustainable development remain among our top national and global priorities. Kyrgyzstan continues to actively cooperate with the IAEA through its technical cooperation programs in medicine, agriculture, environmental protection and human resource development. We attach particular importance to the use of nuclear and isotopic technologies in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, which directly contributes to improving the quality of health care in our country. We firmly believe that the peaceful atom must serve the people, bringing practical benefits and support the achievements of the SDGs. Kyrgyzstan is interested in expanding such cooperation, especially in the context of sustainable development and climate change adaptation. To strengthen the legal framework of nuclear and radiation safety and in line with the international instruments and AIA standards, The Kyrgyz Republic continues to improve its national legislation. We have ratified the Convention on Assistance in the Case of the Nuclear Accident or Radiation Emergency, the Convention on Early Notification Nuclear Accident, and the Additional Protocol to the Safeguard Agreements with the IAEA under the TPNW. In October this year, Kyrgyzstan and IAEA signed a new country program framework for 2026 and 2031. The key document defines our national priorities for technical cooperation in the coming years. The Kyrgyz Republic remains firmly committed to the nonproliferation regime, supports the efforts to strengthen the IAEA safeguards system, and calls upon all states to strictly fulfill its international obligation in this vital area. In conclusion, Mr. President, Kyrgyzstan reaffirms its readiness to continue active engagement with the Agency to deepen cooperation and the shared experience in order to promote the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear energy. Thank you. GA · PGA [11:10]: I thank the distinguished representative of Kyrgyzstan. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan [11:31]: Distinguished Chair, Excellencies, let me begin by expressing my sincere gratitude to the permanent missions of Australia in Vienna and New York for their leadership in facilitating the resolution entitled Report of the International Atomic Energy Agency. Alexander reaffirms its strong support for the IAEA's indispensable role in promoting the peaceful uses of atomic energy, strengthening nuclear safety, verification, and security. However, despite the agency's impeccable record, I must raise concern about an absolutely unacceptable and flawed practice within the organization. The principle of sovereign equality of all member states clearly articulated in its statute, remains not yet fully realized. The IAEA continues to operate under a structural imbalance that prevents some Member States, including Kazakhstan, from assuming their rightful place in its decision-making processes. Kazakhstan has consistently and resolutely raised this issue to restore fairness, inclusiveness and justice within the Agency. The present resolution reflects this principled position and draws attention to the developments highlighted during the 69th session of the IAEA General Conference. Excellencies, I would like to draw your attention to the footnotes of the resolution, which recall the IAEA General Conference resolution entitled "Restoration of the sovereign equality of Member States in the IAEA". adopted in September 2023 at Kazakhstan's initiative. It seeks to ensure equal rights and representation for 13 so-called "airless" states, those not yet included in any regional group defined by Article 4.A of the Statute. Being airless means being a full-fledged member of the IAEA yet deprived of the right to be elected to the Board of Governors, to hold leadership positions, or to join regional consultations that shape key decisions. Can you imagine that a full-fledged member cannot join the so-called informal regional group, when here in New York, all member states are admitted to regional groups automatically? Such a situation is neither fair nor consistent with the Statute. Kazakhstan firmly rejects this inequality, which also affects other Central Asian states committed to the Agency's principles and objectives. Distinguished delegates, Kazakhstan's record in advancing the peaceful use of nuclear energy is beyond the question. We voluntarily renounced the world's fourth largest nuclear arsenal, closed the Semipalatinsk test site, commemorated globally as the International Day Against Nuclear Tests; together with the Central Asian neighbors, established the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone; hosts the IAEA Low Enriched Uranium Bank; remains the world's leading producer and exporter of natural uranium. Throughout its membership, Kazakhstan has always paid its assessed contributions fully and on time. and has regularly provided voluntary contributions to IAEA programmes, a clear demonstration of our enduring commitment to the Agency's mandate and collective responsibility. Nevertheless, for more than three decades, imagine, three decades, Kazakhstan and its neighbors have faced unjustified barriers to full participation in the Agency's governance. Your Excellencies, at the recent 69th session of the IAEA General Conference, Kazakhstan announced its candidacy for the Board of Governors for the 25-27 term from the Far East area, consistent with its membership in the UN Asia-Pacific Group. While some viewed this as a challenge to informal regional arrangements, Most recognized it as a legitimate exercise of our sovereign right. Following broad consultations, Kazakhstan yet again demonstrated flexibility and withdrew its candidacy as our application for membership in the Far East Regional Group was placed on the silence procedure until the next session of the IAEA Board of Governors in November this year. Kazakhstan has been seeking this membership since 2009, and enjoys the support of all members of the group, yet our application has been repeatedly delayed by one state. We sincerely hope that this time the silence procedure will pass successfully. If not, Kazakhstan will continue to assert and defend its legitimate rights in full accordance with the statute of the organization, and speaking publicly out about those who prevent the progress in this overdue issue. Distinguished delegates, in conclusion, Kazakhstan always acts responsibly and constructively within the IAEA and among its member states. Our case is not the only one. As I have mentioned already, there are 13 AELIS states in the IAEA. Our case is not about politics. It is about upholding the Agency's core values. sovereign equality, fair representation, and democratic justice. If these principles are compromised, the credibility and sustainability of the Agency itself is at risk. Through dialogue, mutual respect, and shared commitment to equality, we can strengthen the unity and effectiveness of the Agency for the benefit of all of us. I thank you. GA · PGA [17:57]: I thank the distinguished representative of Kazakhstan. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Democratic People's Republic of Korea [18:19]: Mr. President, The delegation of DPRK expressed its grave concern over the draft resolution, report of the IAEA, submitted to this meeting, containing so-called resolution of the IAEA General Conference that unreasonably took issue with the DPRK's exercise of its sovereign right. In this regard, I clarify our position. The DPRK is steadily building up its strength in the face of ever-worsening security environment on the Korean Peninsula and in its vicinity. due to expansion of the US-led nuclear bloc. This is indisputable, independent right of the sovereign state. DPRK's transition to nuclear weapon state was inevitable choice made at the crossroad of rise and fall of our state. And now, the concept of the denuclearization have already lost its meaning. As a physical cornerstone for safeguarding national security and peace and stability of the region and the rest of the world, DPRK's position of the nuclear weapon has been permanently enshrined in the national law. And it is our obligation to defend national law without fail. Moreover, the DPRK withdrew from the IAEA more than 30 years ago. and stands as a nuclear-weapon state outside NPT. Therefore, the IAEA has neither a legal authority nor moral justification whatsoever to interfere in our internal affairs. However, the IAEA put on its agenda the legitimate exercise of the right to self-defense of the sovereign states outside its jurisdiction. This constitutes intolerable political provocation and clear interference in our domestic affairs. The DPRK condemns and rejects such acts in the strongest terms. Unless the nuclear threat from outside is terminated, and as long as there exist imperialist forces that rely on the nuke for the means of existence of their tyranny, We will never allow the interruption on our road of bolstering up our nuclear deterrence. Mr. President, at the General Conference of the IAEA held last September, the responsible nuclear weapons states and several IAEA member states expressed resolute and head-on opposition and rejection to the adoption of the illegal anti-DPRK resolution. That is vivid reflection of the international desire to put an end to decades-old practice of injustice and to defend justice and equity. Comrade Kim Jong-un, President of State Affairs of DPRK, said, "The fact that DPRK is possessed of nuclear weapon will remain forever as it is now, regardless of whether United States and its allies like it or not. And no matter how loudly or persistently they call the colors for denuclearization for 10, 20, 50, or even 100 years, history will not be rewritten, nor will the reality will be changed, even though United States and its allies continue to possibly adopt such unfeasible documents under the name of the so-called international organization, and the attempt to deny DPRK's status as a nuclear weapon state. We clarify once again that DPRK will have nothing to do with the IAEA, which is devoid of the intrinsic principle of independence, impartiality, and objectivity in its activity, and instead continue to pursue biased and double-dealing practice by aligning itself with the United States and its hostile policy against DPRK. The delegation of DPRK take this opportunity to recommend that IAEA should focus its undivided attention on addressing the real and urgent threat undermining the foundation of the international nuclear nonproliferation regime, such as provision of the extended deterrence, nuclear sharing with non-nuclear weapon states, and transfer of the nuclear submarine technology conducted by the United States, rather than wasting time and resources on the issue beyond its mandate. DPRK will in the future, too, categorically oppose and reject any attempt to modify current status of DPRK and fulfill its obligation before the international community as a responsible nuclear weapon state. I thank you. GA · PGA [23:41]: I thank the distinguished representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Togo. Togo [24:08]: Thank you, Mr. President. The delegation of Togo welcomes the presentation of the 2024 report of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and we're grateful for the additional information provided on its activities. We'd like to congratulate the Director General, Mr. Rafael Mariano Grossi, and his whole team for the remarkable results that they've seen in implementing the agency's mandate. Togo reaffirms its full support for the IEA's work, which remains an essential partner in preventing nuclear proliferation and promoting the inalienable right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Through its technical and scientific support, the Agency makes a tangible contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. My delegation is pleased to note that the 2024 report highlights the significant progress made in innovative programmes such as Rays of Hope, This promotes access to cancer treatment. Another program is ZODIAC in the detection of zoonotic diseases. We have New Tech Plastics against plastic pollution and finally Atoms for Food for food security and nutrition. For its part, Togo joined seven other member states in the 24th Safeguards Traineeship Programme for Young Professionals held in Vienna from February to October 2024. This contributes to strengthening to human capacity building in nuclear safeguards. President, since joining the IAEA in 2012, Togo has maintained dynamic cooperation with the Agency, bolstered by our signing of the Country Programme Framework for 2020-2025. This covers five priority areas. They are nuclear and radiological safety, health and nutrition, food and agriculture, water and the environment, and energy and mines. Through this partnership, Togo has received major technical support, particularly for the establishment of an international oncology center in Lome, which has been functioning since 2022, contributing to improving access to cancer care in the subregion. In the same vein, the Applied Hydrology and Environmental Geology Lab at Lome University received an isotopic analyzer provided by the IAEA. This has improved water resource management. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Togo also received material and technical support from the IAEA, particularly through the provision of RT-PCR machines, diagnostic kits, and training, which boosted our health system's resilience. President, COGHO welcomes the excellent cooperation that we have with the IAEA. This bears out its constant commitment to the three pillars of the non-proliferation treaty. They are disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy for peaceful means. In a world marked by persistent tensions and manifold crises, nuclear energy must be seen as a tool for hope and progress. for sustainable development, particularly for developing countries facing the challenges of poverty, food security, and access to water and health. My delegation therefore calls for enhanced international cooperation with the IAEA so as to boost the impact of its programs and guarantee that the benefits of nuclear science reach us all. In parallel, Togo underscores that the peaceful use of atoms must go hand in hand with heightened efforts to ensure the full elimination of nuclear weapons, whose mere existence remains a threat to collective security, 80 years after the tragedies of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Finally, as a newly elected member of the IAEA Council of Governors, Togo reiterates its commitment to work to consolidate the Agency's mandate and to promote atoms for peace, development and well-being. Thank you. GA · PGA [29:05]: I thank the distinguished representative of Togo. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya. Kenya [29:28]: Thank you, Mr. President. Kenya welcomes the annual report of the International Atomic Energy Agency for 2024 and commends the Director General for his leadership in advancing the agency's mandate as set out in its statute and takes note of the draft resolution before this Assembly, which underscores the indispensable role of the agency in fostering international peace and security through these barriers. We recognize the International Atomic Energy Agency as a vital bearer of the global security architecture, whose role has grown in urgency and relevance amid today's geopolitical turmoil. My delegation commends the Agency's efforts to strengthen international framework for nuclear safety and security, enabling member states, especially developing countries, to harness nuclear science for national development and contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals. Kenya commends the Agency's strengthened engagement with Africa, including through the African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training Related to Nuclear Science and Technology, and cooperation with the African Commission on Nuclear Energy under the Berendaba Treaty. Mr. President, in the area of human health, Kenya takes positive note of the Agency's continued support to Member States in strengthening their national capacities to address critical health challenges. We appreciate the Agency's continued support in advancing animal health, which remains critical to improving livelihood, food security, and agricultural productivity. Kenya takes note of the Agency's efforts in contributing to global food security and welcomes the progress of the Atoms for Food initiative, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate change, land degradation, and nutritional challenges, and look forward to continued collaborations under this important program. Kenya's cooperation with IAEA has been vital in advancing Kenya's development goals in energy diversification, climate adaptation, food security, and healthcare, aligned with our national development priorities, the African Union's Agenda 2063, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Goals. Key activities included, one, establishing two major cancer treatment centers under the Rays of Hope initiative, significantly improving access to cancer care and strengthening our national capacity for cancer management. Two, strengthening animal health in collaboration with the African Union by an African SASFRI and the Trichomoniasis Eradication Campaign, which advanced the integration of the progressive control pathway into national and regional strategies. Three, establishing the first nuclear power plant by 2034, guided by the IAEA milestones approach as a step towards achieving energy security and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. And four, capacity building for nuclear engineers and nuclear scientists from the region. Mr. President, Kenya calls for constructive dialogue and cooperation in addressing issues related to noncompliance recognizing that sustained engagement remains key to building mutual confidence and ensuring compliance with international obligations. Kenya remains committed to the highest standards of nuclear safety, security, and safeguards, strengthened through the Nuclear Regulatory Act and the preparation for the upcoming Integrated Regulatory Review Service mission. Through the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Agency and our national hydrology laboratory, we continue to build regional capacity and foster cooperation in radiation protection and water resource management. In the coming days, Kenya Nuclear Agency Commission and original designated center for entity will be established in line with the agency's best marks. Mr. President, in conclusion, Kenya reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the work and the ideals of the AIEA. We stand ready to deepen cooperation with the Agency and fellow Member States in promoting the peaceful, safe and secure uses of nuclear science and technology for the benefit of humanity and for the sustainable development of present and future generations. I thank you. GA · PGA [35:18]: I thank the distinguished representative of Kenya. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of France. France [35:41]: Mr. President, this year, France has once again co-sponsored resolution on the work of the International Atomic Energy Agency and reaffirms of course its full support for the agency and its activities I would like to make three remarks in this regard first the IAEA plays a crucial role in preserving the international non-proliferation regime and and particularly in the implementation of safeguards under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which is the cornerstone of this regime. At a time when the non-proliferation regime faces major challenges, France reaffirms its unwavering support for the Agency, its Director General, and its teams who carry out their responsibilities with independence and professionalism. on Iran. France calls on Iran to resume full cooperation with the IAEA in line with the agreement and we welcome the IAEA's role of ensuring Iran's compliance with its obligations, particularly those contained in the resolutions recently reinstated by the Security Council. In accordance with those resolutions, Iran must now suspend all of its activities related to enriching and other technical activities with uranium. France is in favor of a diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear crisis, which is the only way to ensure over the long term that Iran does not come into possession of nuclear weapons. We call on Iran to come back to the table of negotiations in order to conclude a substantive, lasting, and verifiable agreement regarding its nuclear program. On the issue of North Korea, the ongoing Development by North Korea of its nuclear and ballistic capabilities is, in our view, a serious threat to international peace and security. It is also a blatant violation of international law, including Security Council resolutions. France reiterates its call on North Korea to comply with its international obligations including its obligations under the NPT and to engage in dialogue with a view to a complete, irreversible, and verifiable denuclearization. Now, moving on to my second point, we welcome the IAEA's efforts to disseminate best practices in nuclear safety and security. This contributes to the responsible development of this clean energy source. France condemns in this regard Russia's illegal, firmly condemns Russia's illegal occupation of these Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plants. Russia bears the sole responsibility for the situation and must, as the IA has demanded to put an end to this occupation without delay and to return full control of the facility to Ukrainian authorities. We align ourselves with the joint statement delivered by Ukraine on this matter and reiterate our support for the seven pillars for nuclear safety and security, as well as the five principles set out by the Director General on May 30th, 2023 to the Security Council of the United Nations. The presence of IAEA experts on the ground is a valuable and essential tool that we must collectively encourage and facilitate. Finally, my third point. France supports the Agency's work in promoting the civilian uses of nuclear energy which contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. My delegation particularly appreciates the IAEA's efforts to shed light on the contribution of nuclear technologies to meeting the challenges of sustainable development and climate change. France is also a supporter of the agency's efforts in the areas of health, food, and agriculture, as well as preserving cultural and natural heritage. This is something where the IAEA possesses recognized expertise. In 2024, France was the sixth largest contributor to the Technical Cooperation Fund and eighth largest contributor to the Fund as an extra budgetary contributor and non-beneficiary. This is a major mechanism that provides access to nuclear technology and know-how. I thank you. GA · PGA [41:31]: I thank the distinguished representative of France. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Slovenia. Slovenia [41:47]: Mr. President, Slovenia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union. In addition, I would like to make the following remarks in our national capacity. We welcome the report of the International Atomic Energy Agency and commend Director General Rafael Grossi and his team for their tireless work and leadership. The IAEA's independent, technical and impartial role remains essential in ensuring that nuclear energy worldwide contributes to peace, security and sustainable development. Slovenia attaches the highest importance to the credibility and integrity of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime, and the IAEA's safeguards system remains its cornerstone. We call for the universalization of comprehensive safeguards agreements and additional protocols, and we continue to support the Agency's efforts to ensure the exclusively peaceful use of nuclear energy. Mr. President, we are deeply concerned about the nuclear safety and security situation in Ukraine, in particular at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Slovenia strongly supports the IAEA's continued presence in Ukraine and endorses the Director General's seven pillars and five principles, which remain crucial as the situation at the plant remains precarious. Slovenia is gravely concerned with the trajectory of DPRK's nuclear program. The international community must create conditions conducive to the DPRK abandoning its illegal WMD and ballistic missile programs. Likewise, we call on Iran to fully cooperate with the IAEA, implement its safeguards obligations, and return to diplomacy to resolve the outstanding issues. Mr. President, as a country operating a nuclear power plant, Krsko Nuclear Power Plant, Slovenia is committed to maintaining the highest standards of nuclear safety, security, and transparency. Our regulatory framework, aligned with Euratom and IAEA standards, ensures the independent oversight of all nuclear activities. Slovenia is committed to a strong nuclear safety and security culture and takes an active part in peer review missions. We are also ensuring the safe, long-term management of radioactive waste, observing international best practices. Mr. President, nuclear energy continues to play a vital role in Slovenia's energy mix. and in our transition to a low-carbon, secure and sustainable energy future. We fully support the IAEA's efforts to promote the peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology in areas such as health, agriculture, water management and environmental protection. Slovenia attaches great importance to international cooperation and capacity building. We appreciate the IAEA's support to Member States through technical cooperation projects and are proud to share our expertise in nuclear safety, nuclear security, regulatory development, and emergency preparedness with regional partners. Last year, we hosted an expert-level workshop in Ljubljana on nuclear safety and security in crisis situations. The discussions reaffirmed the urgent need to strengthen the global nuclear safety framework to address evolving threats. Mr. President, Slovenia commends the Agency's steadfast commitment to advancing gender equality and acknowledges the significant progress made through the Maria Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme. Empowering women to actively participate in nuclear science and policy is crucial for the future of this field. In closing, we reaffirm our unwavering support for the IAEA and the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. We will continue to support the Agency's work in ensuring that nuclear energy is used safely, securely, and exclusively for peaceful purposes. Together, we must preserve the integrity of the international nuclear framework and enable all nations to benefit from the peaceful use of nuclear technology. I thank you. GA · PGA [46:19]: I thank the distinguished representative of Slovenia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belarus. Belarus [46:42]: Mr. President, Belarus thanks IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi for his report on the Agency's activities in 2024. We welcome the effective leadership of the organization and highly appreciate the competent work it does in positioning nuclear energy and nuclear technologies as an important component of sustainable development and a safe, reliable, and accessible source of energy. We commend the agency's efforts to expand access to nuclear technologies in energy, healthcare, and agriculture. along with comprehensively strengthening international cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Evidence of these efforts includes the 2024 conferences on nuclear science, on nuclear applications and technical cooperation, as well as the success of the Agency's flagship initiatives. At the same time, The current international context points to a high degree of escalation in this sphere. New security threats pose serious challenges for the IAEA. We express deep concern over the strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards. This contradicts the norms of international law, including the provisions of the 1968 Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and the Geneva Conventions. Such actions lead to serious humanitarian consequences. They endanger the safety of civilians as well as the environment, and they also carry the risk of catastrophe for the entire nonproliferation regime. We once again call on the international community to give due attention to the situation. Wisdom and foresight must prevail over emotions and prejudice. We urge the IAEA to take a thoughtful and principled approach to situations that involve a threat to nuclear safety. Equally importantly, in a period of major international turbulence, the IAEA as a central international platform must maintain its depoliticized nature and act strictly in accordance with its mandate. Only strengthened cooperation and impartial work by the Agency can make the sustainable development of peaceful nuclear energy possible. In terms of bilateral cooperation between Belarus and the IAEA, we would like to note the following. For five years now, Belarus has been operating its first nuclear power plant. The construction of the Belarusian NPP has enabled our country to ensure energy security and technological sovereignty. The commissioning of the plant has allowed to meet the growing demand for electricity. The nuclear power plant covers two-fifths of national electricity needs. It is equally important that thanks to the operation of the Belarusian nuclear power plant, the country has reduced its annual greenhouse gas emissions by more than 7 million tons. From the very beginning of implementing its national nuclear energy program, Belarus has taken significant steps towards establishing a system of nuclear and radiation safety, as well as its key elements, creating the necessary legal framework, as well as building and operating a protection and response system. The Republic of Belarus is fully implementing its international obligations to ensure the required level of physical protection of nuclear material and facilities at the Belarusian nuclear power plant. During last year's visit to the plant, IAEA Director General, as well as other senior leaders of the agency, were able to witness the safe and effective functioning of this facility firsthand. We highly appreciate this visit as well as the substantive discussion of the full range of cooperation issues that took place during it. The year 2026 will once again recall the tragic legacy of the Chernobyl disaster. In this context, the signing of a document on practical cooperation between the Agency and the Polesia Radioecological Reserve ahead of the 40th anniversary of the tragedy is highly meaningful for us. Belarus reaffirms its readiness for transparent and responsible cooperation. We are prepared to share our experience in developing nuclear energy infrastructure. We remain open to constructive, professional, expert dialogue on nuclear safety with all interested parties. Thank you for your attention. GA · PGA [51:47]: I thank the distinguished representative of Belarus. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Maldives. Maldives [52:08]: Thank you, Mr. President. The Maldives thanks the Director-General and the Secretariat for presenting the report, which provides a comprehensive account of the Agency's activities and priorities over the past year. The Maldives recognizes the value that that nuclear science brings to public welfare when governed with rigor and transparency. The IAEA ensures that benefit and responsibility advance together. Cancer care remains a central area of contribution. Through the agency's flagship initiative, Rays of Hope, radiotherapy and diagnostic services have been strengthened through the regional anchor centers. Targeted technical cooperation helps more countries establish functional cancer pathways closer to home. This regional model improves access, builds sustainable clinical expertise, and reduces the burden on patients who would otherwise need treatment abroad. The Maldives welcomes this approach. It demonstrates that nuclear medicine delivers tangible public health outcomes through strong partnerships and phased capacity building. As an island nation, we recognize the importance of decentralized development projects and comprehensive cancer care pathways, among others. The Maldives also values the Agency's work in food and environmental monitoring. Atoms for Food and related programs reinforce trust in fisheries, exports, and food safety, which are key components of economic confidence. The New Tech Plastics Programme builds the evidence needed to address marine pollution, including microplastics. It allows countries to act on knowledge and not on assumption. Nuclear safety, security and safeguards are essential to international stability. We attach significant importance to the safe transport and management of radioactive materials, given the heavy maritime traffic in the region. Vigilance and cooperation remain indispensable. The Maldives supports the Agency's mandate, its technical independence and its service to all Member States, large and small alike. I thank you. GA · PGA [54:44]: I thank the distinguished representative of Maldives. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Libya. Libya [55:21]: In the name of God, the merciful, the compassionate. Mr. President, Director General of the IAEA, ladies and gentlemen, the state of Libya would like to express its appreciation to the IAEA for the annual report presented to the General Assembly. It reflects the vital role of the Agency in enhancing the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and in supporting Member States in the fields of nuclear safety and security and non-proliferation safeguards. We value the efforts and achievements of the Director General and we value his able and wise leadership. The report reflects the extensive efforts by the Agency over the past year. implemented inspection and verification processes in more than 88 member states in order to ensure that nuclear material is not turned into material to be applied in the military field. It also led programs in the field of nuclear medicine, agriculture, water, and energy. And it contributed to building national capacities in developing countries. especially in Africa and Asia, in the fields of nuclear infrastructure. The report notes an increasing reliance on nuclear applications in diagnosing cancer and treating cancer, and in improving agricultural harvest and addressing impediments to a good harvest. We welcome efforts by the IAEA to enhance clean energy and supporting countries that wish to include nuclear energy in their energy mix. We commend the advances in nuclear sciences through laboratories around the world. Libya fully supports the efforts of the IAEA in implementing the comprehensive safeguards agreements according to the NPT. Libya values the development of oversight and analysis systems that enhance the effectiveness of inspection and follow-up that enhances the trust in the comprehensive safeguards agreements. It enhances the credibility of this system. We commend also the fact that the report focuses on the importance of nuclear safety and security, especially in light of challenges emanating from natural disasters or armed conflicts. Libya. expresses its satisfaction over the supports expressed by member states to the agency as a cornerstone of the international system of non-proliferation and safeguards. We highlight the importance of technical operation programs. It is an important tool to achieve the SDGs. Libya calls for enhancing financial contributions to the Agency to enable the Agency to fulfill its increasing tasks and to expand its services provided to developing countries. The state of Libya stresses once again that it is fully committed to the principles and purposes of the IAEA. and to move forward to enhance the peaceful applications of nuclear energy to serve prosperity and the energy field in Africa and the Arab world. We look forward to continuing our constructive cooperation with the IAEA and member states to achieve the most noble goal for which the agency was established, the atom for peace and developments. I thank you, Mr. President. GA · PGA [1:00:23]: I thank the distinguished representative of Libya. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal. Portugal [1:00:43]: Thank you, Mr. President. Excellencies, Portugal aligns with the statement of the European Union. like to thank the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency for the presentation of the annual report, and we welcome the draft resolution put forward by Australia, which Portugal sponsored. Mr. President, at times of multiplying conflicts, rising tensions, and increasingly inflammatory rhetoric, including on nuclear matters, the IAEA plays a crucial role in upholding multilateralism, in fostering genuine dialogue, and in encouraging de-escalation. Portugal fully supports the agency's mandate. In particular, we support its work on nuclear security and safety. We greatly value the work of the agency in Ukraine, namely with regard to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. We also attach great importance to the agency's work on peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology, and on the technical cooperation under the motto "Atoms for Peace and Development". We're very proud to have been elected last September to the agency's Board of Governors. Indeed, Portugal strongly welcomes and attributes great value to the seven flagships initiatives launched by the Director General in recent years to maximize the contribution of nuclear science and technology and technology to the SDGs. We are already collaborators or contributors to four of them. Rays of Hope, ZODIAC, New Tech Plastics and the Marie Curie Fellowship Programme. And we are committed to enhancing our support to these initiatives, including through the renewal of our Memorandum of Understanding with the Agency. We also intend to join the Lise Meitner Programme. Furthermore, in the last year, our country program framework was extended. We pledged to the 2026 Technical Cooperation Fund. We also do regional capacity building initiatives, and we continue implementing our first national action plan on RADAM. It is our intention also to renew the collaboration with the agency's collaborative center at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. These developments clearly show that Portugal remains deeply committed to strengthening our cooperation with the Agency across fields such as public health, agriculture, food security, water management, environmental protection, and the fight against climate change and pollution. Mr. President, concluding, even as we approach next year's NPT Review Conference, it is clear that the nuclear disarmament architecture is eroding. Geopolitical mistrust is growing, and the risk of miscalculation and of escalation is increasing. History reminds us of the destructive potential of nuclear weapons. And I quote the British philosopher Colin Wood, "The only clue to what man can do is what man has done." So we are therefore strong supporters of the NPT its universalization, and its implementation across the treaty's three pillars, and call on all countries which have not yet adhered to this treaty to do so without delay. We also encourage constructive engagement at the 2026 review conference. The role of the Agency and its impartial, independent, and objective work in the context of the NPT must be reaffirmed. We therefore hope for the adoption of this resolution. I thank you. GA · PGA [1:04:42]: I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Norway. Norway [1:05:02]: Thank you, President. Norway aligned with the statement delivered by Ukraine on behalf of a group of states under this agenda item. In addition, in our national capacity, Norway is pleased to take the floor as co-sponsor of the resolution on the report of the International Atomic Energy Agency. The IAEA continues to play a vital and irreplaceable role in upholding the international nonproliferation regime, in strengthening nuclear safety and security, in ensuring robust verification and safeguards, and to promote peaceful use of nuclear technology. These efforts are both essential for maintaining international peace and stability, and they contribute to sustainable development. Norway commends the Agency for its professionalism, impartiality, and technical excellence. President, on the country files, we would especially like to thank the IAEA for keeping under its consideration the issue of the NPT safeguards agreement with Iran and the quarterly reports on verification and monitoring considering UN Security Council Resolution 2231. We commend the Director General and his team for the strong commitment to nuclear safety and security in Ukraine. The IAEA support and assistance missions in Ukraine provide crucial information and assessments. We are grateful for their efforts as well as the hard work of the Ukrainian personnel under extreme conditions. We are pleased to be one of the Member States contributing financially to the Agency's efforts in Ukraine. President, we welcome the IAEA's contributions to sustainable development through its many flagship initiatives. These programmes demonstrate how nuclear science can be harnessed to address agricultural development, global health challenges, and plastic pollution, particularly in regions most in need. Nuclear technologies are instrumental in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, and the IAEA is a key facilitator in this respect. Norway also appreciates the IAEA's dedication to inclusive participation, technical cooperation, and capacity building. We reaffirm our full confidence in the Agency's mandate and governance. This resolution on the report of the IAEA reflects the shared commitment of Member States to support its mission. Norway encourages continued engagement and co-sponsorship to ensure that the Agency's work remains robust and effective. In closing, President, let me reiterate: Norway stands firmly behind the IAEA and this resolution. We remain committed to supporting its efforts for peace, development, and nuclear safety and security. I thank you. GA · PGA [1:08:45]: I thank the distinguished representative of Norway. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria. Algeria [1:09:08]: Mr. President, I commend the Director General, Rafael Maria Mugrabi, for presenting the Agency's annual report and for his visionary leadership throughout his two terms. His personal commitment to advancing nuclear technology for sustainable development, particularly through groundbreaking initiatives, merits our highest consideration and recognition. We commend the Secretariat for the comprehensive report before us covering nuclear technology technical cooperation, security, safety, and safeguards. Algeria reaffirms its steadfast support and cooperation with the Agency. President, Algeria emphasizes its critical role, the critical role of nuclear technologies across health, agriculture, water resources, and environmental protection. We welcome the substantial achievements of the Director-General's flagship initiative. First, under Rays of Hope, we applaud the delivery of life-saving cancer care equipment and the doubling of regional Oncor to 11 centers, establishing worldwide excellence in cancer care. We particularly highlight expanding training for radiation medicine professionals. Algeria actively contributes through its regional collaborative center, welcoming students and professionals from 11 African nations for training in nuclear medicine, radiology, and radiotherapy. Second, concerning ZODIAC, we value the expanding global network, strengthening pandemic preparedness. Third, for New Tech Plastics, we recognize the Agency's inaugural Antarctic research mission, detecting microplastic in every sample with 104 laboratories now participating. Fourth, we welcome ATOM for Food program. The FAO-IAEA initiative, delivering integrated solutions for enhancing food security, is critically important for Algeria. and other nations as well, facing climate change impact. President, Algeria appreciates the Director-General's scientific forum theme, "Atoms for Water", vital for predominantly arid and semi-arid nations like my country. Implementing President Tebboune's program, Algeria commissioned five sea water desalination facilities in 2025. We also expanded nuclear technology application through our geoscientific laboratory for isotope hydrology. Algeria renews its endorsement of the Technical Cooperation Programme and affirm continued cooperation through the National Framework Programme 2024-2029. Robust cooperation with our national authority demonstrates Algeria's dedication to strengthen legal architecture for peaceful nuclear energy At the regional level, Algeria reconfirmed commitment to the AFRRA agreement supporting African countries through five designated regional centers throughout Africa. We actively engage with the African Commission on Nuclear Energy and welcome the agency's partnership through the Coordination Group for Uranium Legacy Sites, which successfully expanded in 2024. Once more, we thank Director General Grossi for his exceptional efforts and transformative leadership. I thank you. GA · PGA [1:14:55]: I thank the distinguished representative of Algeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. Russian Federation [1:15:16]: Mr. President, the Russian Federation attaches great importance to the work of the International Atomic Energy Agency, which is an important instrument of international cooperation in the peaceful uses of atomic energy, as well as a unique mechanism for monitoring states' compliance with their nuclear nonproliferation obligations. Overall, we take a positive view of the IAEA's efforts and intend to continue developing fruitful cooperation with the agency, making a substantive contribution to fulfilling its practical objectives across all mandated areas. At the same time, the remaining serious flaws of the draft UNGA resolution on the report of the IAEA objectively prevent us from supporting it, much less joining its co-sponsors. We cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that the current version of the draft fails to properly reflect the fact that four resolutions of the 69th session of the IAEA General Conference were adopted by a vote rather than by consensus. We are convinced that the footnote included in the draft, which merely refers to a lengthy compendium of resolutions and decisions of the General Conference, cannot be considered an adequate substitute for a factual mention of those resolutions which were put to a vote. We see this as an attempt to conceal the fact that these politically motivated initiatives do not enjoy universal support and create division within the agency. In this context, we reaffirm our position of principle regarding the legally and politically null and void nature of the IAEA resolution entitled Nuclear Safety, Security and Safeguards in Ukraine. a resolution that goes far beyond the remit of the agency's statute and undermines its technical mandate. We condemn and reject the provisions of any agency documents that contradict objective reality and deny the voluntary reunification of Crimea, Sevastopol, the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics and the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions with Russia, as well as Russia's ownership of nuclear facilities and sites outside facilities where nuclear material is used in these regions of our country. During the discussion, we heard a number of politicized accusations against the Russian Federation from some delegations in the context of the situation around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. And this, despite the fact that the only party creating threats to the nuclear safety and security in the current conflict is Ukraine. This is clearly illustrated by the repeated attacks carried out by Kyiv against the ZNPP over the past three years. I will not go into the details of these reckless actions. as our country regularly informs the IAEA Secretariat, the UN Security Council, and the international community as a whole about the real situation at the nuclear power plant. An IAEA mission is present at the ZNPP, and its experts have had the opportunity to see firsthand who is actually creating threats to the nuclear power plants. We expect that they will be able to inform the international community about this and directly name the source of the attacks, the armed forces of Ukraine. Ukraine, for its part, is doing everything possible to demonstrate its disregard both for the agency's efforts, including by promoting politicized initiatives in the UN General Assembly that undermine the IAEA's work, as well as disregard for basic common sense. we stress that the ZNPP is a Russian facility. Our country independently determines the parameters for the functioning of the plant's relevant safety systems, as we bear responsibility for ensuring nuclear safety and security on our territory. We will continue to do everything necessary in this regard in accordance with our national legislation and international obligations. We will also keep the international community informed about the real situation at the ZNPP. Mr. President, We also note the fundamentally erroneous, biased, and destructive nature of the agency's resolution entitled Implementation of the NPT Safeguards Agreement between the Agency and the DPRK. The reason is simple. The data underpinning this document, which was drawn from the relevant agency report, raised legitimate questions and have not been verified through an inspection since IAEA inspectors have not visited the nuclear facilities of that state for more than 15 years. It is striking in this context that a number of countries continue to talk about a certain goal of the DPRK's denuclearization. Russia is also being absurdly reproached for rejecting this objective and legitimately developing bilateral relations with our close neighbor and longstanding partner. It is absolutely clear that responsibility for the escalation of tensions on the Korean Peninsula lies with Western states. Instead of seeking political and diplomatic solutions, the United States and their regional allies, primarily the Republic of Korea and Japan, have been conducting annual large-scale military exercises targeting the DPRK for half a century now. This irresponsible, confrontational, and provocative policy poses a real threat to regional security and does nothing to help reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Mr. President, in conclusion, we would like to draw attention to the fact that any politically motivated statements by the President of the General Assembly are absolutely unacceptable. In accordance with the PGA Code of Ethics enshrined in Resolution 70/305 and reaffirmed in Resolution 79/327, I remind you that the President of the General Assembly in their work must maintain an impartial and unbiased position. We call on the PGA to refrain in the future from any unfounded insinuations regarding the Ukrainian issue, as well as baseless accusations against UN member states, the invalidity of which we have regularly demonstrated in relevant forms. Thank you for your attention. GA · PGA [1:22:25]: I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Hungary. Hungary [1:22:44]: Mr. President, Hungary welcomes the adoption of the report of the IAEA in advance and wishes to emphasize the Agency's indispensable contribution to promoting its mandate of atoms for peace and development. We express our appreciation to Director General Rafael Grossi for his leadership and for this comprehensive report. We are also grateful to Australia for their able chairmanship in the IAEA Board of Governors. In a time marked by increasing global challenges, Hungary attaches particular importance to the IAEA's independent and impartial work, which continues to serve as a cornerstone of transparency and cooperation in the nuclear field. Hungary aligns itself with the main aspects of the EU statement regarding the EU support for the IAEA Comprehensive Safeguard Agreement and the Additional Protocol, the UN Security Council Resolution 2231, and the objectives and principles of the NPT. In relation to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, we believe that we are facing new geopolitical circumstances and the conflict has entered a new phase to which the international community needs to adapt its policymaking. Therefore, in this regard, Hungary has more reservations compared to other EU member states. Hungary reaffirms its enduring commitment to the global non-proliferation architecture. We remain steadfast in supporting the IAEA's central role in preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons while promoting and facilitating peaceful uses of nuclear energy under appropriate safeguards. Hungary considers the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement together with the additional protocols as the standard for verification. The IAEA safeguards system is a crucial measure to maintain international security and confidence. As highlighted in the report, the Agency also plays an important role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by assisting Member States in using nuclear technology for health, food security, water management and environmental protection. Mr. President, Hungary views the NPT as the cornerstone of the international non-proliferation and disarmament regime. We emphasize the indivisibility of its three pillars, nonproliferation, disarmament, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Hungary is fully committed to the NPT's implementation and to ensuring its continued relevance ahead of the review conference. As the report states, the continuation of the DPRK's nuclear program, clear violation of relevant UN security resolutions, is deeply regrettable. Hungary remains gravely concerned by the DPRK's continued development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, which pose serious threat to international peace and security and undermine the global non-proliferation regime. We support all diplomatic efforts aimed at each achieving the complete, verifiable, and irreversible dismantlement of the DPRK's nuclear program. We call upon the DPRK to return to the MPT and to cooperate fully with the IAEA. In conclusion, let me once again reiterate that Hungary strongly supports the IAEA's work in reinforcing international security, maintaining the integrity of non-proliferation regime, and facilitating responsible international cooperation on peaceful nuclear applications. I thank you. GA · PGA [1:26:32]: I thank the distinguished representative of Hungary. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of South Africa. South Africa [1:26:48]: Mr. President, South Africa welcomes the 2024 annual report of the International Atomic Energy Agency and commends the agency for its continued dedication to advancing the peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology in these challenging geopolitical times. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the peaceful application of nuclear energy, consistent with the objectives of the IAEA Statute and Article IV of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the NPT, which recognizes the inalienable right of all States Parties to develop and use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. We further commend the Agency's vital role in ensuring that nuclear materials and technology are used solely for peaceful purposes through its effective safeguards system, which remains essential for promoting transparency and maintaining international confidence in the peaceful nature of nuclear programmes. In this regard, South Africa underscores the importance of strengthening the IAEA safeguard system within the framework of the NPT to ensure trust, ensure compliance, and reinforce the integrity of the non-proliferation regime. Mr. President, in 2024, cooperation between South Africa and the IAEA depend across key areas. The signing of our fifth country programme framework, 2024-2029, provides a strong foundation for collaboration in nuclear safety, health, food and agriculture, water management and industrial innovation. We are also proud that the nuclear medicine research infrastructure was designated as an IAEA collaborating center under the Rays of Hope Cancer Care for All initiative. alongside our ongoing cooperation with eThemba Labs to strengthen regional capacity in accelerator-based science and technology. South Africa is pleased that the IAEA Director General, Mr. Rafael Grossi, participated in the G20 ministerial meeting on energy transitions, as well as in the first ever G20 side event dedicated to nuclear energy during his first visit to South Africa earlier this month. South Africa values its cooperation with the agency and the commitment of support for South Africa's future energy plans. These milestones highlight the transformative potential of nuclear applications in supporting sustainable development. South Africa remains fully committed to the Agency's mandate and to ensuring that nuclear technology continues to advance peace, prosperity, and the attainment of the goals of the UN 2030 Agenda and Africa's Agenda 2063. I thank you. GA · PGA [1:30:04]: I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea. Republic of Korea [1:30:23]: Chair, we extend our appreciation to Director General of the IAEA, Rafael Grossi, for presenting the 2024 Annual Report, and to the distinguished representative of Australia for introducing draft resolution A/80/L.7, which we happily co-sponsored. The Republic of Korea remains a committed and active supporter of the Agency's vital work to strengthen the nuclear nonproliferation regime, enhance nuclear safety and security, and promote the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Our decision to host an international ministerial conference on nuclear power in 2026 underscores our steadfast commitment to the IAEA's mandate to promote atoms for peace and development. We continue to fully support the IAEA's efforts to universalize the comprehensive safeguard agreements and additional protocol, and the revised small quantities protocol. We urge all those that have not yet done so to conclude and bring these key instruments into force without delay. My delegation welcomes the resolution implementation of the NPT safeguards agreements between the Agency and the DPRK. which was adopted by an overwhelming majority at the 69th IAEA General Conference. Once again, the resolution clearly states that the DPRK cannot have the status of a nuclear weapons state in accordance with the NPT, and that all member states should fully, comprehensively, and immediately implement relevant UN Security Council resolutions. We once again urge the DPRK to fully comply with all its international obligations, cease all provocations and its illegal nuclear and ballistic missile programs, take concrete steps toward complete denuclearization, and return to dialogue at all stages. The Republic of Korea also takes note of the IAEA General Conference resolution on nuclear safety, security and safeguards in Ukraine, adopted for the third time since the onset of the war against Ukraine. Over the past three years, the precarious nuclear safety and security situation in Ukraine has shown no sign of improvement. We reiterate our full support for the continued efforts of the IAEA Director General and his team to closely monitor and report on the situation, including through the continued on site presence of the IAEA support and assistant mission to Japan. Regarding the disposal of contaminated water stored at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station, We appreciate the agency's dedicated efforts over the past two years. We expect the IAEA to continue its on-site monitoring and independent analysis to ensure that the discharge remains fully consistent with international safety standards. The Republic of Korea reaffirms its commitment to actively participating in the IAEA monitoring and corroboration activities. Chair. The Republic of Korea has been an active contributor to expanding the benefits of peaceful uses of nuclear energy through its support for various IAEA technical cooperation programs, such as Rays of Hope, JODIAP, New Tech Plastics, Renewal, Atoms for Food, and the Peaceful Use Initiative. We reaffirm our support for the IAS platform on small modular reactors and their applications, as well as the nuclear harmonization and standardization initiative, both of which play a crucial role in the development of advanced reactors under appropriate regular regulatory frameworks. We also welcome the agency's effort to apply artificial intelligence across the nuclear technology life cycle. We will take an active part in the discourse on its safe and effective application at the upcoming International Symposium on AI and Nuclear Energy in December 2025. Chair, we wish to reiterate the importance of enhancing the representation and participation of Member States in the IAEA Board of Governors. It remains a matter of concern that, even after 26 years, The amendment to Article 6 of the IAEA Statute has yet to enter into force. The amendment aims to align the composition of the Board with the Agency's growing membership and evolving nuclear landscape, thereby ensuring greater equity and inclusiveness in its governance. We encourage all Member States that have not yet done so to take the necessary step toward ratification. Finally, taking this opportunity, we commend the Agency for achieving gender parity among its staff, with women now accounting for more than 50% of the professional and higher categories. At the same time, we encourage the Secretariat to further strengthen its efforts to improve geographical representation. with particular attention to regions, including the Far East, which remains underrepresented. With these remarks, we affirm our strong support for the work of the Agency, as well as the draft resolution A/80/L.7, report of the International Atomic Energy Agency. Thank you. GA · PGA [1:36:51]: I thank the distinguished representative of the Republic of Korea. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran (Islamic Republic of) [1:37:12]: In the name of God, the compassionate and merciful, Mr. President, I thank the Director General for his report. However, such reports must always remain professional, factual, and free from political influence. The credibility of the agency depends entirely on its impartiality. Nuclear energy is indispensable for development and energy security, particularly for developing countries. The transfer of nuclear science and technology granted under Article IV of the NPT and the IAEA Statute is an inalienable right, not a privilege. Safeguard must facilitate, not obstruct, the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Many attempts to exploit proliferation concerns to deny developing countries their legitimate rights constitute a serious violation of the NPT's letter and spirit. It is alarming that while Certain states systematically restrict developing nations' access to peaceful nuclear technology. They simultaneously arm and assist the Israeli regime, a regime outside the NPT, with a clandestine arsenal of weapons of mass destruction. Such double standards, combined with unlawful, unilateral coercive measures, gravely undermine the credibility of the non-proliferation regime and the Agency's technical cooperation mandate, Mr. President. In June 2025, the world witnessed an atrocious act of aggression. The Israeli regime, only hours after a politically motivated resolution in the IAEA Board of Governors, launched massive military strike against Iran's safeguard nuclear facilities. Under full agency monitoring, this criminal attack targeted Iranian scientists and their families, killing and injuring thousands and inflicting immense material damage. On 22 June, the United States, a permanent member of the Security Council and depository of the NPT, joined this aggression, directly targeting IAEA-monitored facilities. This act flagrantly violated international law, the UN Charter, IAEA Statute and Security Council Resolution 487, which explicitly prohibits attack on safeguard nuclear installations. This was not merely an attack on one member state. It was an assault on the authority of the United Nations, the credibility of the agency and integrity of the safeguard system itself. While relevant General Conference resolutions, in particular, resolution 444 and resolution 533, explicitly affirm that any armed attack on or threat against nuclear facilities devoted to peaceful purposes constitute a violation of the principles of the UN Charter, international law, and the Statute of the Agency. And while the Director General has repeatedly emphasized that nuclear facilities must never be attacked under any circumstances due to the grave risk such actions pose to people, the environment, and to nuclear safety, security, and safeguards, as well as regional and international peace and security, it is deeply regrettable that the illegal attacks against Iran peaceful nuclear facilities were neither condemned by the Agency, nor by the Security Council, nor indeed by the Director General himself. Regrettably, both the President of the General Assembly and the Director General of the IAEA, in their statement under this agenda item, have once again failed to condemn these illegal attacks. Mr. President, Iran has been a responsible party to the NPT since 1970. Yet, the E3 and the United States, echoing Israeli regime fabrications, continue to misrepresent Iran's peaceful nuclear activities, while the Israeli regime, the region's sole possessor of nuclear weapons and main obstacle to a nuclear-weapon-free Middle East, acts with complete impunity. Despite sabotage, assassination, and unlawful sanctions, and no direct attacks on our safeguard facilities, Iran has never violated the GCPOA, the NPT, or its safeguard obligations, and has remained committed to diplomacy. The recent report of the Director General confirmed that the suspension of inspections was a direct consequence of this armed attack. responsibility lies entirely with the aggressor, not with the victim. No safeguards provision currently address how to maintain engagement under condition of armed aggression and continuing threats. A new framework is therefore required to ensure that the safety of nuclear personnel and facilities under such extraordinary circumstances. In a constructive spirit, Iran and the Agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Cairo on 9 September 2025, aimed at addressing these challenges. Unfortunately, this positive development was immediately undermined by the hostile action of the United States and E3, who continue to block every diplomatic initiative, including the balanced proposal by China and Russia in the Security Council. The E3's invocation of the so-called snapback mechanism, an illegal reckless act aimed at destroying the last bridge to diplomacy, is null and void. Having themselves violated the GCP and resolution 2231, they have no legal standing to invoke its provisions. Resolution 2231 expires permanently on 18th October, 2025. and all related restrictions are terminated. Any attempt to revive or reinforce them is an illegal abuse of process and must be rejected by this Assembly and by the Secretary-General. Mr. President, Iran will never yield to threats or coercion. We respond only to respect, legality, and equality. Military aggression and economic terrorism will not compel Iran to abandon its legitimate rights. I thank you. GA · PGA [1:44:07]: I thank the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba. Cuba [1:44:27]: Mr. President, we're grateful for the presentation of the annual report of the International Atomic Energy Agency and the draft resolution A/80/L/7. We reiterate Cuba's support for this important agency and its contribution to the peaceful use of nuclear energy. We reaffirm the relevant role of the IAEA as the guarantor of the nuclear non-proliferation regime under the NPT, and we reject action to undermine the credibility of the agency's comprehensive verification system. In this context, we reiterate our strongest condemnation of Israeli and United States air strikes on nuclear installations in the Islamic Republic of Iran last June. These violated the international nuclear security regime and the IAEA's norms and safeguards, in addition to representing a serious violation of the UN Charter and international law. President, We wish to thank the Agency for the efforts in addressing mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika, dengue and chikungunya. We also take this opportunity to highlight the Regional Cooperation Agreement for Promoting Nuclear Technology and Science in Latin America and the Caribbean, which is marking its 41st anniversary this year. We are proud to support the work of this program to implement IEA initiatives to address challenges in health, environment in the region through the contribution to capacity building and our participation in expert missions, particularly in Central America and the Caribbean. We also wish to flag the support of the Cooperation Department as an essential mechanism to give countries of the global south access to nuclear technologies with a social impact. Together, we have developed in the areas of nuclear medicine, particularly looking at cancer control, food security, environmental protection. In these areas, Cuba has not only been a beneficiary, but has also made contributions and shared its experience. We reiterate our support for the activities of the Ibero-American radiological and nuclear regulatory agencies, which continue to deliver results for the strengthening of nuclear radiological and nuclear radiological safety in Ibero-American countries. We reaffirm Cuba's commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy and the great importance that we attach to nuclear and radiological safety. President, despite the noteworthy cooperation between Cuba and the IAEA, we cannot but mention the problems that this agency commonly faces in implementing its projects with our country due to the restrictions imposed by the economic, commercial, and financial blockade of the US against Cuba. The prohibition on countries from the US, or even those in third countries that have US shareholders, from selling equipment to Cuba continues to drive up the cost of procurement for equipment for our country, hindering capacity building, delaying the rollout of national projects under the auspices of the IAEA, and leaving us out of opportunities for projects in our region. We reject unilateral coercive measures that contravene Article IV of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. They obstruct international cooperation and block access to material, equipment and technologies for peaceful nuclear activities by developing countries that are subjected to this type of measure. President, the IAEA provides the framework for the adoption of international standards on nuclear safety that should be the outcome of transparent and inclusive multilateral negotiations involving all states. Contrary to the benefits for humanity of peaceful nuclear energy, the mere existence of nuclear weapons continues to threaten the survival of the human race. We continue to believe that the only safeguard against the use or the threat of use of nuclear weapons is their full elimination in a verifiable, transparent, and irreversible manner. Accordingly, we advocate for the universalization of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons without delay. The goal of nuclear disarmament cannot continue to be indefinitely postponed. Thank you very much. GA · PGA [1:49:09]: I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative for Fiji. Fiji [1:49:29]: Mr. President, Fiji wishes to join the chorus of gratitude extended in this hall to the Director General, Mr. Rafael Grossi, for the IAEA report. Through you, Mr. President, we also like to thank IAEA staff for their enduring support and partnership with small island developing states like Fiji, including their resilience in working in some of the dangerous and complex zones of our time in ensuring peace and security. We also convey our gratitude to Australia as Chair of the IAEA Board of Governors for introducing the resolution in relation to IAEA's annual report, which Fiji gladly cosponsors. Mr. President, At the 54th Pacific Island Forum in the Solomon Islands in September this year, Pacific leaders endorsed the Ocean of Peace Declaration, reaffirming the Pacific region's commitment to a nuclear-free region and peace as we commemorate this year's 40th anniversary of the Treaty of Rarotonga. Fiji supports the critical role of the IAEA in ensuring the implementation of appropriate safeguards for the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons. In relation to the Advanced Liquid Processing System water discharge, Fiji aligns with the Pacific Leaders Communique adopted this year. in welcoming the ongoing efforts by the Pacific community to develop a guidance and assessment scientific data on all nuclear related discharge and community contamination issues. This also includes a region's MOU on ALPS with the IAEA. Additionally, my Prime Minister, the Honorable Sita Bin Ramuka, had a fruitful meeting in Japan yesterday. her excellency the Prime Minister Takechi in relation to this matter. Mr. President, excellencies, Fiji appreciates the achievements of the IAEA as highlighted in the report. We signed our IAEA country program framework from 2022 to 27 in line with IAEA's nuclear science and technology program. Our technical cooperation program will focus on strengthening agricultural resilience and food security via mutation breeding, addressing climate change impacts, and through isotope hydrology for water resources, and also establishing radiotherapy facilities for health and managing the legacy of radioactive sources. As a small island developing state in a region vulnerable to climate change, this support is not just technical, it's existential. Additionally, as a member state since 2012, IAEA's technical assistance is targeted towards Fiji's achievement of its national development goals, with a particular focus on food and security, health, water and environment protection. Last year, Fiji accepted the modified small quantity protocol and has since been providing declarations to each additional protocol, the latest of which was submitted in September this year in Vienna. Additionally, in 2024, with the support of IAEA experts, Fiji successfully extracted and exported disused radioactive sources to the USA for cancer treatment purposes. Fiji values the importance of working with IAEA for security and safety purposes. This includes hosting technical missions to Fiji, compiling its source inventory and working with border agencies, encouraging national regulators to monitor operations continuously, and holding quarterly national interagency with IAEA counterparts for greater transparency. Mr. President, as the current chair of the Regional Co-operative Agreement of the IAEA, we have hosted national representatives from Asia and the Pacific in Fiji in May this year. We also chaired the Regional Co-operative Agency for the IAEA in the margins of the General Conference meeting in Vienna last month in preparation for the 69th IAEA General Conference. In closing, Fiji looks forward to deepening its partnership with the IAEA, recognising that science and solidarity together can shape a safer, healthier, and more prosperous future for all. I thank you. GA · PGA [1:53:59]: I thank the distinguished representative of Fiji. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nigeria. Nigeria [1:54:20]: Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues. Nigeria thanked Mr. Rafael Marano Gorrice, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency for his presentation of the annual report. We also commend Australia for its exemplary leadership as chair of the IAEA Board of Governor for 2025. Nigeria reaffirmed its unwavering support for the agency in fulfilling its vital mandate of promoting safe, secure, and peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Mr. President, Nigeria remain convinced that nuclear weapon constitute the gravest threat to humanity. Their total elimination is essential to lasting international peace and security. We urge the nuclear weapons state to demonstrate greater transparency and genuine commitment to disarmament and to channel resources currently devoted to nuclear disarmament, nuclear armament toward sustainable development, particularly health, agriculture, education, and renewable energy. Nigeria also underscores the importance of universalizing the IAEA Comprehensive Safeguard Agreement to ensure that all nuclear activities are placed under effective verification. Strengthening safeguard implementation remains central for nonproliferation, transparency, and confidence building. Mr. President, Nigeria reaffirmed the inalienable right of all states to peaceful uses of nuclear energy consistent with international law and under appropriate safeguards. The IAEA technical cooperation and capacity building programs are indispensable in enabling developing countries to harness nuclear science and technology for socio-economic development. In this regard, Nigerian current program framework 2024 to 2029 identify five priority areas for cooperation, food and agriculture, health and nutrition, nuclear and radiation safety and security, water resources and environmental management. Through these programs, the agency continue to make meaningful contribution to Nigeria national development goal in health, food, and environmental sustainability. Nigeria values the IAEA continued support to Africa and call for deeper collaboration, particularly in health, energy, and environmental protection. We also emphasize the importance of predictable and sufficient funding to ensure the continuity and equitable implementation of agency technical cooperation activities. In conclusion, Mr. President, Nigeria commends the dedicated service of Ambassador Vivian Okeke and her team in the IAEA office in New York and encourages the Director General to continue ensuring that nuclear science and technology are applied responsibly, inclusively, and exclusively for peaceful purposes. Nigeria stands ready to work with all Member States to advance the Agency's mission for a safer, more secure, and more prosperous world. I thank you all. GA · PGA [1:57:53]: I thank the distinguished representative of Nigeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Dominican Republic. Dominican Republic [1:58:17]: Thank you, Mr. President. The Dominican Republic is honored to take the floor in this meeting to refer to the most recent report of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the IAEA. This report reflects the Agency's commendable work in support of nuclear security, non-proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The Agency's contributions go beyond the technical aspects that it carries out pursuant to its mandate. Indeed, the Agency has become an essential pillar of the multilateral system for international security and sustainable development. Its daily work in inspection, technical cooperation, research and verification provides a reliable reassurance to the entire international community. Mr. President, The 2025 report reaffirms persistent challenges in the area of safeguards and verification. The IAEA continues to face complex contexts marked by a lack of access to certain nuclear programmes and by geopolitical tensions that imperil the integrity of the non-proliferation regime. The Dominican Republic reiterates its backing for the Agency's work to ensure the universal and effective application of comprehensive safeguards and additional protocols. These mechanisms are essential to ensuring that nuclear materials and technologies are not diverted towards the development of nuclear weapons. In this regard, our country reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the NPT, the cornerstone of the international disarmament and nonproliferation regime. Furthermore, we highlight the IAEA's critical role as the independent verifying entity for compliance with that treaty. President, the Dominican Republic has built its technical capacities in this area through the support of the IAEA. We have done this through capacity building, modernising our radiological testing infrastructure, as well as through making contributions to the Rays of Hope initiative to build a cancer hospital and a dosimetry calibration laboratory for cancer treatment and diagnosis. In health, technical cooperation has been decisive in our region. The report also highlights the results of the IAEA's technical cooperation program. This has benefited more than 150 countries in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy for socioeconomic development, covering areas such as agriculture and food security, water resource management, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and environmental protection. Finally, the Dominican Republic reaffirms its belief that the future of nuclear energy should be built on the values of security, sustainability, solidarity, and peace. Thank you very much. GA · PGA [2:01:34]: I thank the distinguished representative of the Dominican Republic. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union. EU · EU [2:01:56]: Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union. We are pleased to support the resolution on the report of the IAEA, highlighting the Agency's indispensable role, as outlined in its mandate, atoms for peace and development. We commend IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi for his leadership and thank him for his presence here earlier today and for his statement. We reaffirm our strong support for the Agency's technical, independent and impartial work in a challenging geopolitical context. From the outside, we would like to express our regret that not all negotiated resolutions at this year's 69th IAEA General Conference were adopted. As a result, the respective resolutions as adopted in 2024 continue to be in effect. We also stress that all resolutions adopted by the IAEA General Conference are equally valid. Mr. President, It's now more than three and a half years since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and its illegal seizure of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. During this period, the nuclear safety and security situation at the ZNPP has steadily deteriorated, and Russia's massive attacks on Ukraine's energy-related infrastructure pose a great risk to the safe and secure operation of all of Ukraine's nuclear power plants. These attacks are flagrant violations of the UN Charter and international law and the very principles of the IAEA Statute. The EU categorically rejects the Russian claim, as just made again by the Russian delegate, that the CNPP belongs to Russia or falls under its jurisdiction. The EU calls on Russia to adhere to the IAEA Board of Governors and General Conference resolutions, to urgently withdraw from the ZNPP, and to fully respect Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. The EU is grateful to the IAEA for its work and continued presence at all of Ukraine's nuclear power plants. We stress the importance of the IAEA's seven indispensable pillars and the Director General's five concrete principles, which must be respected. The EU stands with Ukraine and will continue to provide significant support to Ukraine bilaterally and through the IAEA. Mr. President, the EU remains strongly committed to peace, security and stability in the Middle East, including the Gulf region. We have always been clear that Iran must never be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons and that it must comply with its legally binding obligations under the NPT. We take note of the reinstatement of six previously lifted Security Council resolutions after completion of the snapback process as provided for in Security Council resolution 2231. These resolutions create obligations for all UN Member States and decide that Iran shall suspend several proliferation-sensitive nuclear activities. Consequently, the European Union has implemented the reimposition of all previously lifted UN and EU nuclear-related sanctions. We urge all UN Member States to fully implement and comply with these sanctions and other restrictions. However, the snapback of sanctions and nuclear restrictions is not the end of diplomacy with Iran on the nuclear issue, which remains a key challenge to regional and international security. The European Union will continue to contribute to all diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and to bring about a lasting solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, which can only be achieved through negotiations. We call on Iran to urgently return to the negotiating table and to refrain from any initiative that may hinder or delay a negotiated solution. The EU commends the IAEA and its Director General for their efforts to resume cooperation with Iran and pursue clarity on Iran's nuclear program. We urge Iran to immediately allow the Agency to restart all its safeguard activities in accordance with the NPT Safeguards Agreement and provide the legally required reports on its nuclear program. As the Director General has clearly stated, Iran's implementation of its safeguards agreement cannot be suspended under any circumstances. Without the full implementation of safeguards, the Agency will not be in a position to provide any conclusions or assurance regarding Iran's nuclear program. And we call on Iran to remedy its non-compliance by taking all steps deemed necessary by the Agency. Mr. President, the EU remains gravely concerned about the DPRK's continued development of its nuclear and ballistic missile programs in violation of UN Security Council resolutions. We urge the DPRK to cease all its unlawful activities and destabilizing actions, and call on it to engage in meaningful discussions with all relevant parties to build a basis for sustainable peace and security, and to take steps aimed at pursuing complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. This includes the Agency's return to the DPRK. The DPRK must return to compliance with the NPT and the IAEA Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement, as well as bring into force the Additional Protocol. We urge the DPRK to sign and ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty. The DPRK cannot and will never have the status of a nuclear-weapon State under the NPT. The EU commends the IAEA for its updates on the DPRK. And we fully support the recent IAEA General Conference resolution on the DPRK and welcome its adoption with an overwhelming majority. Mr. President, we support the Director General's engagement with Syria and welcome the process of clarification of the outstanding safeguards issues. The recent contacts between Syria and the IAEA are further steps in the right direction. We agree with the DG on the importance of continued and reinforced cooperation between Syria and the Agency, with the aim of achieving clarity regarding the Assad regime's nuclear activities as soon as possible. Ahead of the 2026 NPT Review Conference, The EU and its Member States reiterate their firm support for the full, complete and effective implementation of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty across its three pillars, and calls for its universalisation. We continue to fully support the establishment of a zone free of nuclear and all other weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems in the Middle East, as agreed at the 1995 NPT Review Conference. The EU strongly supports the strengthening of the IAEA safeguards system. For decades, Euratom has guaranteed nuclear materials controls in Europe and has served as a reliable partner to the IAEA in nuclear safeguards, remaining a key contributor to global nonproliferation efforts. Comprehensive safeguards agreements, together with additional protocols, represent the current verification standard under Article III of the NPT. and we call for their universalization without delay. The IAEA safeguards system is a fundamental component of the nuclear non-proliferation regime and plays an indispensable role in the implementation of the NPT. We underline the primary responsibility of the UN Security Council in cases of non-compliance and encourage diplomatic efforts to find peaceful solutions to proliferation crises which represent a grave threat to international and regional peace and security. Mr. President, The EU and its Member States attach utmost importance to nuclear safety and its continuous improvement and calls on all States to make use of the IAEA review services. EURATOM has built up an advanced, legally binding and enforceable nuclear safety legal framework, which is applicable in all EURATOM Member States. Other countries also benefit from our assistance with a budget of 300 million euros. We encourage all UN Member States to promote a strong nuclear safety culture. We look forward to the next review meeting of the Convention on Nuclear Safety in April 2026. We encourage all UN Member States to join the International Nuclear Safety and Security Conventions, as well as the Code of Conduct on Radioactive Resources sources. We appreciate the agency's continued commitment to maintaining fully applicable and up-to-date safety standards and security guidance. Also, for new technology concepts such as small modular reactors, it is particularly important to ensure the highest level of nuclear safety and security. in accordance with the IAEA safety standards and security guidance. We also note the fast development of artificial intelligence and its applications worldwide. We look forward to the IAEA's Tech Doc on safety and security implications of the use of artificial intelligence in nuclear installations and the upcoming International Symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Nuclear Energy. The EU and its Member States support the IAEA's activities in the peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology to implement the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development and the Paris Climate Agreements. We welcome the IAEA's contribution to improving human health and nutrition, agriculture, food safety and security, as well as water management, to combat climate change and its effects, and to preserving natural and cultural heritage through the peaceful use of nuclear science and technology. We welcome the Director General's continued work on important flagship initiatives and look forward to their further implementation in cooperation with other UN agencies and organizations. Last, but certainly not least, we also welcome the IAEA's strong commitment to gender equality. We were delighted to hear from the Director General that the agency has reached gender parity in professional categories and higher levels early this year. A gender perspective should be continuously maintained and mainstreamed in all IAEA programs and projects. The IAEA's Marie Sklodowska Curie Fellowship program, to which the EU is the largest donor, helps to increase the number of women in the nuclear field. I thank you, Mr. President. GA · PGA [2:13:25]: I thank the distinguished representative of the European Union. We have had the last speaker in the debate on this item. We shall now proceed to consider draft resolution A/80/L.7. For your information, the draft resolution is closed for e-sponsorship. I now give the floor to the representative of the Secretariat. UN Secretariat · Representative of the Secretariat [2:13:56]: Thank you, Mr. President. I should like to announce that since the submission of the draft resolution, and in addition to the delegations listed on the L document, the following countries have also become co-sponsors of A/AD/L7: Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Armenia, Austria, Belgium, Plurinational State of Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Cote d'Ivoire, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, Estonia, Eswatini, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Guatemala, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Iraq, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malawi, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Kingdom of the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Norway, Palau, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Samoa, San Marino, Senegal, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Somalia, South Africa, Spain, Sudan, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Tonga, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Uruguay, Vietnam and Zimbabwe. If any other countries wish to co-sponsor A/AD/L.7, please signify by pressing the microphone button. I see Gambia, Maldives, Vanuatu, Algeria, Marshall Islands, and Sierra Leone. I thank you, Mr. President. GA · PGA [2:17:35]: I thank the representative of the Secretariat. Before giving the floor for explanations of vote before the vote, May I remind delegations that they are strongly asked to limit explanations of vote to five minutes, which should in any case not exceed 10 minutes and be made from their seats. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United States. United States of America [2:18:09]: Thank you, Chair, for giving me the floor. The United States partners with the IAEA and other member states to advance innovative breakthroughs in nuclear technologies and applications, while maintaining the highest standards of safety, security, and nonproliferation. We are applying our experience and expertise in a wide range of sectors, including providing abundant and affordable nuclear energy solutions and installing state-of-the-art technology at hospitals and research facilities around the world. The United States is fully supportive of the IAE's core missions, including its safeguards system for nuclear proliferation, for nuclear nonproliferation, excuse me, promoting safe and secure uses of nuclear technology, and assisting with nuclear safety and security efforts. However, the United States continues to have numerous concerns with the content of various resolutions that came out of the 69th General Conference. For example, the United States does not support programs or resolutions that introduce bias in hiring based on sex. Regarding gender-related terminology, U.S. policy recognizes two sexes, male and female, and does not endorse gender ideology. For these reasons, the United States disassociated itself from the resolution entitled "Women in the Secretariat," as it does not align with U.S. policy. In addition, the United States disassociated itself from elements of other resolutions referencing climate change, sustainable development goals, and gender. We also regret Member States were not able to reach consensus during the General Conference on the resolution on strengthening the effectiveness and improving the efficiency of agency safeguards. We reaffirm the essential role of the IAEA in expanding access to peaceful uses while preventing proliferation. And we iterate our commitment to unleashing a golden age of American energy. Thank you, Mr. Chair. GA · PGA [2:20:27]: I thank the distinguished representative of the United States. We have had the last speaker in explanation of vote before the vote. The Assembly will now take a decision on draft resolution A/80/L.7, entitled "Report of the International Atomic Energy Agency". A recorded vote has been requested. We shall now begin the voting process. Those in favour of the draft resolution A/80/L.7 Please signify those against and those abstaining. UN Secretariat · Representative of the Secretariat [2:21:17]: The Assembly is now voting on draft resolution A/L.80/L.7, entitled "Report of the International Atomic Energy Agency". Will all delegations confirm their votes are accurately reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the machine. GA · PGA [2:21:50]: The result of the vote is as follows. In favor, 146. Against, 2. Abstentions, 1. Draft resolution A/80/L7 is adopted. Before giving the floor for explanations of vote after the vote, may I remind delegations that they are strongly urged to limit explanations of vote to five minutes, which should in any case not exceed 10 minutes and be made from their seats. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Israel. Israel [2:22:44]: Thank you, Mr. President. Israel affirms its support to the important work of the IAEA. Notwithstanding our support, we would like to place on record our reservation regarding the non-consensual and politically motivated Middle East-related resolution, most notably the IAEA 69th General Conference Resolution 10. I thank you. GA · PGA [2:23:21]: I thank the distinguished representative of Israel. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran (Islamic Republic of) [2:23:33]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. President, sorry. My delegation abstained on the draft resolution concerning the report of the IAEA. We consider it necessary to place the following points on clarification on the record. In our view, the text of the resolution does not accurately reflect the procedural outcome of the most recent session of the General Conference. The resolution characterizes the decision regarding agenda item 15, strengthening of the agency's technical cooperation activities, item 16, strengthening the agency's activities related to nuclear science and technology and applications, and item 17, strengthening the effectiveness and improving the efficiency of agency safeguards, as having been effected merely through a statement of the President of the Conference. This description is not consistent with the actual proceedings. The action in question constituted a formal decision of the Conference, taken in accordance with its rules of procedure and reflecting the collective will of its membership. It was not, nor should it be, portrayed as a unilateral statement by the President. This understanding was clearly articulated during the deliberation of the Conference, and the President of the Conference explicitly referred to the action as a decision of the Conference. We therefore wish to underline that any reference to this matter must accurately reflect the institutional decision-making process of the General Conference. My delegation requests that this clarification be duly noted in the record. I thank you, Mr. President. GA · PGA [2:25:21]: I thank the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. We have heard the last speaker in explanations of vote after the vote. The exercise of the right to reply has been requested. May I remind Member States that statements in the exercise of the right of reply are limited to 10 minutes for the first intervention and to 5 minutes for the second intervention, and should be made by delegations from their seats. I call on the representative of Ukraine. Ukraine [2:26:05]: Thank you, Mr. President. Our delegation would like to exercise the right of reply in response to the statement made by the delegation of the Russian Federation. We categorically reject any allegations against our country. We would like to stress that Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Luhansk, and Donetsk regions of Ukraine are sovereign territory of Ukraine. In 2022, the Russian Federation organized a propaganda show called referendums in the temporarily occupied territories of Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Luhansk, and the Donetsk regions of Ukraine. Russia's actions severely violated the constitutional laws of Ukraine as well as norms of international law. These sham referendums have no implication for Ukraine's administrative territorial system and the internationally recognized borders. Ukraine and the international community condemn such actions of Russia and consider them null. Ukraine remains deeply concerned by the situation in the temporarily occupied by Russia, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. We would like to remind that before Russia's war of aggression, the ZNPP, the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, operated with multiple off-site power connections, reliable cooling water from the Kakhovka Reservoir, a licensed Ukrainian operating staff, and uninterrupted IAEA safeguards. That baseline was not only a national achievement, it was a contribution to global trust in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Under occupation and military pressure, Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant has been forced into single point of failure conditions. The plant has endured repeated total losses of offsite power, most recently on 23rd of September 2025. Although the 750 kilowatt line was restored months after, real safety requires redundancy across all damaged connections. We emphasize that the return of Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant to Ukraine's full control is the only way to restore nuclear safety and stability. Only the Ukrainian regulator and operator can ensure an appropriate level of nuclear safety at the plant in accordance with international standards and IAEA safeguards. Therefore, the ZNPP was, is and will remain Ukrainian. The Russian Federation must immediately withdraw its troops from the planet's territory, cease nuclear blackmail, and stop attempting to manipulate issues of global security. Ukraine will continue to act decisively to restore the rule of law and protect its security. Thank you, Mr. President. GA · PGA [2:28:51]: I thank the distinguished representative of Ukraine. I call on the representative of Lithuania. Lithuania [2:29:02]: President, with regard to the -- I would like to make the right of reply with regard to the statements of the delegates of Belarus and the Russian Federation. I am stating the following. Lithuania remains seriously concerned about the Russian-designed Belarusian nuclear power plant located near to our capital, Vilnius. The site was selected without complying with core international safety standards and excluding key agency seed mission modules, raising fundamental safety questions from the outset. The plant's construction, commissioning and operation have since been marked by your recurring incidents, persistent gaps in safety assurances. And reluctance to engage transparently with neighboring countries and the international community. Its operation presents an unacceptable risks, and we strongly urge that it be suspended until all safety issues are fully resolved and independently verified. Mr. President, it's been almost four years that Russia continues its devastating and provoked war of aggression against a sovereign country of Ukraine. Russia's shelling of Ukraine's energy infrastructure is endangering nuclear safety and security. The Ukrainian Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant remains in great jeopardy as Russia has seized the facility and turned it into a military stronghold. Only last month, Europe's largest nuclear power plant for one month has been forced to rely on emergency diesel generators to sustain its cooling systems. Any attempt to connect this plant with Russia's energy grid is unacceptable. Russia must immediately withdraw all the personnel from Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant And we call on the Russian Federation to withdraw from the territory of Ukraine and call for the international community to recognize Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, and it has to be ensured. We also call for continuous cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency and other international forums to address these issues and to work towards returning Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant to Ukraine's control. I thank you, Mr. Chairman. GA · PGA [2:31:35]: I thank the distinguished representative of Lithuania. I now call upon the distinguished representative of the United States of America. United States of America [2:31:50]: Thank you, Chair. We're compelled to take the floor to respond to the statement made by Iran during the general debate. The United States has been clear Iran can never possess a nuclear weapon. The grave and growing threat to Israel and the region created by Iran's enrichment program necessitated strong and decisive action directed by President Trump. We did not take this action lightly, and our action was fully consistent with the inherent right of collective self-defense reflected in Article 51 of the UN Charter. The specific targets were military objectives under international humanitarian law, and our actions were taken with careful consideration for the safety of Iranian civilians. Iran should focus on fully cooperating with the IAEA, and it's obliged to do as it's obliged to do under its NPT-related safeguards agreement, and as the international community repeatedly has called upon Iran to do for five years, helping to assure the international community Iran's nuclear program is indeed peaceful in nature. The United States remains committed to achieving lasting peace and security in the region, including and especially for the people of Iran. We also firmly support the global nuclear nonproliferation regime and the IAEA's verification efforts. Thank you, Chair. GA · PGA [2:33:19]: I thank the representative of the United States. I call on the representative of Israel. Israel [2:33:37]: Thank you, Mr. President. We are compelled to respond to the statement made by the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran earlier today. Mr. President, Israel conducted Operation Rising Lion in order to neutralize the existential threat and imminent threat posed by the Iranian regime military nuclear program. as well as the threat posed by its ballistic missile program and other military activities against Israel. This operation was launched in the context of an ongoing armed conflict between Israel and the Iranian regime. The operation was a measure of last resort, promoted by critical development in Iran's nuclear weapon endeavors. and was required in order to thwart imminent Iranian attacks. Mr. President, as we all know, Iran has continuously violated its international commitments, including with regard to the development of nuclear weapons. This makes their statement regarding the NPT absurd. Declaring of their facilities both devoted for so-called peaceful purposes, comes against the backdrop of the record of violation and concealment activities, and underscores the stark contrast between Iran's declared commitment and its actual pursuit of nuclear weapons capabilities, posing a risk to regional and international peace and security. I thank you. GA · PGA [2:35:29]: I thank the distinguished representative of Israel. I now call upon the representative of Belarus. Belarus [2:35:42]: Mr. President, the Republic of Belarus would like to exercise its right of reply in connection with the statements made around the Belarusian NPP made by the delegation of Lithuania. First of all, we wish to note that to discuss the there is there are specialized international fora to discuss issues of nuclear security. However, we must respond to the baseless and biased accusations made by Lithuania when it comes to the alleged lack of safety or certain violations at the Belarusian NPP. We recall that from the very outset of our nuclear energy program, Belarus has openly and responsibly, together with the IAEA, EU and other foreign partners, undertaken and continues to undertake and will continue to undertake all the necessary measures to ensure the highest degree of security and safety for our power plant and to strictly comply with our international obligations. Belarus has made use of all of the IAEA's tools for assessing various aspects of the safety of the Belarusian NPP. All the missions recommended by the agency for countries building their first nuclear power plant have been carried out successfully, and the IAEA's assessment and consultative visits have repeatedly reaffirmed reaffirm Belarus's compliance with the highest international standards for nuclear safety. We believe that nuclear safety is not a national issue and the degree of its importance does not depend on who the nuclear facilities belong to. Belarus is open to professional cooperation with all interested parties and relevant organizations when it comes to ensuring the safety and sustainable use of the Belarusian NPP. We regularly take part in international conferences on nuclear safety. This includes such conferences as and conventions as the Convention on Radioactive Waste and Spent Nuclear Fuel, as well as the Convention on Nuclear Safety. Thus, during the eighth review meeting of the convention in March 2025, the contracting parties noted that Belarus had complied with the provisions of that convention. In addition, in accordance with our international obligations, we have prepared another national report on the implementation of the Convention on nuclear safety in advance of the 10th review conference, which will be hosted by the IAEA in April 2026. The report is available on the convention's platform for further consideration procedures. It is also available in open access at the Department on Nuclear and Radiation Safety of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Belarus' website. However, we note with regret that Lithuania experts have been avoiding professional expert dialogue. Instead, they have opted unilateral politically motivated statements. So we call on Lithuania to continue cooperation through the aforementioned technical channels and to avoid further politicization of discussions on the IAEA's annual report. Thank you. GA · PGA [2:39:28]: I thank the representative of Belarus. I call on the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran (Islamic Republic of) [2:39:40]: Thank you, Mr. President. My delegation is compelled to categorically reject and firmly denounce the absurd and malicious allegations propagated by the representative of the Israeli regime. For more than three decades, this regime has attempted to deceive the world by claiming that Iran seeks to develop nuclear weapons. Yet, after 30 years of such propaganda, the question remains, where is this alleged nuclear bomb? The international community must not allow fabricated narratives to distort reality or justify unlawful aggression. The recent reckless attacks by the Israeli regime and the United States against Iran's nuclear facilities highlight the gravity of this situation. These facilities, fully under the IAEA safeguards and devoted exclusively to peaceful purposes in accordance with Article IV of the NPT, were deliberately targeted in flagrant violation of international law and the UN Charter. Such actions undermine the foundations of multilateralism, erode trust in disarmament and nonproliferation regimes, and pose serious threats to international peace and security. This condemnation is especially warranted given the appalling record of the terrorist and apartheid Israeli regime. Over eight decades, it has carried out thousands of terrorist operations, displaced millions of Palestinians, martyred and wounded countless civilians, and imprisoned over a million people. It continues to wage military aggression across the region and remains outside every major international instrument governing the disarmament and nonproliferation of weapons of mass destruction, all while maintaining an arsenal of hundreds of nuclear warheads. A regime with such a record has no credibility to lecture others on international law or nuclear obligations. I would like to emphasize that it is more appropriate for the representative of this regime to refrain from glorifying an illegal and failed act of aggression, the so-called Rising Lions operation, which not only demonstrated their utter disregard for international law, but also laid bare the hollowness of their claims and the fragility of their power. So let them remember. These so-called lions may roar loudly in rhetoric, but when confronted with reality, they collapse like paper, fragile, powerless, and defeated. Mr. President, my delegation also categorically rejects and unequivocally condemns the baseless and deceptive allegations made by the representative of certain Western countries, including the UK, France, and the EU, as well as the US right of reply regarding Iran's nuclear program. I must state the following with absolute clarity. First, Iran's nuclear program has always been, is, and will remain exclusively peaceful. This is not a matter of debate. It is a matter of fact, record, and verification. Those who pretend otherwise are deliberately spreading deception for political gain. Second, the real objective behind this accusation is no secret. to deny an NPT Member State its inalienable right under Article IV to the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Hiding behind hollow slogans such as "Iran should never have nuclear weapons" does not disguise this agenda. It merely exposes the hypocrisy of those who claim to defend the NPT while actively undermining its very foundation. Third. These same countries who lecture others on nonproliferation watched silently as two nuclear-armed states launched a 12-day bombing campaign against Iran's safeguarded nuclear facilities, targeting scientists and infrastructure under IAEA oversight. Iran did not yield. Iran did not abandon its program. And Iran did not submit to aggression. Knowledge cannot be bombed away, and dignity cannot be terrorized into submission. Iran has paid a higher price for not building a weapon than others have paid for actually doing so. Yet, it has neither capitulated nor pursued weaponization. It has instead continued its nuclear development transparently and peacefully under IAEA safeguards. The recent agreement between Iran and the IAEA in Cairo, achieved despite illegal attacks, was another demonstration of Iran's commitment to diplomacy. Western countries choose to reward the attackers and punish diplomacy. Fourth, what those countries consistently refuse to understand is the central pillar of Iran's nuclear policy, dignity. Iran does not negotiate under threats, coercion, or selective and weaponized interpretation of international law. The JCPOA succeeded precisely because it acknowledged Iran's dignity, recognizing its right to enrichment, and engaging on the basis of mutual respect. That achievement collapsed not because of Iran, but because the United States unilaterally withdrew and Europe failed to uphold its commitment. Fifth, in addressing the U.S. representative at this meeting, I must say that Iran, and indeed the entire world, came to understand the true meaning of the United States' so-called good faith in negotiations when, in the midst of diplomatic talks and merely two days before the sixth round in Oman, the Israeli regime, with the full backing of the United States, launched a war of aggression against Iran. This was followed by the US itself joining in an unlawful and deliberate attack on Iran's peaceful nuclear facilities, in blatant violation of international law and the spirit of diplomacy. If certain Western states genuinely seek a path forward, they must abandon their failed strategy of pressure, intimidation, and distortion. A sustainable solution is possible only when Iran's rights are fully respected and when dignity, not coercion, forms the basis of engagement. I thank you, Mr. President. GA · PGA [2:46:19]: I thank the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. May I take it that this is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 89? It is so decided. The Assembly will resume its consideration of agenda item 73, entitled "Report of the International Court of Justice to continue the debate on the item. And I can see that we only have nine minutes before one o'clock. Let me get an indication from the secretariat on how we proceed. Maybe we should proceed with the speakers. We will cut off at one o'clock. And on that note, I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Vanuatu. Vanuatu [2:47:57]: Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. Firstly, Vanuatu would like to thank the President, Iwasawa, for presenting the report of the ICJ and on his election as President to the Court. We also like to congratulate Judge Harmon on his appointment to the Court. We acknowledge the significant increase in the Court's caseload and commend the Court on its efforts and commitment to managing this expeditiously, as well as the efforts of the registrar to efficiently coordinate the unprecedented level of participation, particularly in the advisory proceedings of the past year. Mr. President, Vanuatu aligns itself with the statement delivered by the distinguished representative of Uganda on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement, and with a statement delivered by the distinguished representative of Palau on behalf of the Islands of Small Island States. The past International Law Week gathers the world's legal advisors with the opportunity to reflect on the current state of the rule of law and to facilitate the translation of jurisprudence into practical application. This year, we convened in the wake of a landmark clarification of international law by the International Court of Justice on states' obligations in respect of climate change. It is now incumbent upon us, the legal community of the United Nations, to ensure that this clarification is implemented through concrete multilateral action. Two years ago, by By resolution 77/276, the GA requested the ICJ to render its advisory opinion on this matter. Funarte is proud to have helped initiate and carry forward that request, working alongside a broad coalition of states, of youth representatives, of indigenous peoples, and of civil society leaders. Today, we express our deep appreciation and thank the court for its invaluable service to the international community. On 23 July 2025, the court delivered this each opinion. It clarified inter alia the applicable laws governing climate change obligations, including the UN Charter, UN triple FC, and the Paris Agreement, UNCLOS, human rights treaties, and customary rules, including the duties to prevent significant environmental harm and to cooperate, and that these obligations are owed erga omnes. The Court further explained that States must exercise due diligence to the stringent standard, including when preparing national determined contributions, which, taken together, must be capable of achieving the 1.5 degree Celsius temperature goal. The Court underscored the responsibility follows from the past, present, and ongoing breaches, requiring cessation, assurances, and guarantees of non-repetition, and full repressions to ensure states where the general conditions of responsibility are satisfied. These clarifications provide a coherent legal foundation for national policy and multilateral cooperation alike. Mr. President, Vanuatu echoes the point made by Aosis. The ICJ's opinion is revelatory, not revolutionary. It's unanimous determination and authoritative clarification of existing international law and sit within a consistent body of climate jurisprudence by international tribunals. On 21 May 2024, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea confirmed that anthropogenic greenhouse gases absorbed by the ocean constitute pollution of the marine environment, and that State Parties to UNCLOS must take all necessary measures, grounded in the best available science and relevant international standards, to prevent, reduce, and control such pollution. This includes adopting and enforcing laws and regulations and ensuring effective implementation, including with respect to private actors. On 29 May 2025, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights issued its advisory opinion on the climate emergency and human rights. It affirmed that states have legal obligations to prevent, mitigate and remedy climate-related human rights harms, protecting present and future generations. This is a significant contribution to the universal understanding of states' duties in light of scientific knowledge and principles of equity, including intergenerational equity. The General Assembly itself has recognized that human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment. That recognition reinforces the imperative that our collective climate response must be effective and equitable. Mr. President, This legal clarification converges with scientific evidence that is unequivocal. Climate harm escalates with increment of warming. Delivering on the law, therefore, demands action consistent with the best available science and the pathways endorsed by parties in the first global stocktake, including the call to transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems in a just, orderly, and equitable manner during this critical decade. With this legal and scientific clarity in hand, Vanuatu is seeking to discuss and introduce a draft resolution for the Assembly's consideration later this year. We are in discussion with a core group of states to develop the draft text and will share the draft resolution to the broader membership in due course. through this resolution 1026 to welcome the icj's unanimous advisory opinion endorsing the findings of this of the opinion in each entity we also call on States and relevant organizations to comply fully with the obligations as clarified by the court we are advocating for calls to action commensurate with a court's reasoning stringent due diligence nationally determined Pathways consistent with limiting warm warming to 1.5 degree Celsius withdrawal of public private-public financial flows that support expansion of fossil fuels and scale up international cooperation in finance, technology, and capacity building for developing countries. We are also proposing that the resolution responds to the ancient realities confronting small island developing states by affirming that maritime baselines and the outer limits of maritime zones lawfully established and deposited under international law and the continuity of statehood shall not be affected by climate change-related sea level rise. And we'll call on all states to respect and affirm this legal certainty, building on the leadership of states and the developing workstreams of the UNJ and the international law Commission. Further, we are proposing that the resolution recalls that climate change is already displacing peoples across borders and that, consistent with international human rights, the principle of non-refoulement protects individuals from removal to situations where they face a real risk of serious, irreparable harm. This resolution should also invite work across the UN system and among member states to develop safe, regular, and non-discriminatory pathways and protection frameworks responsive to climate-related displacement. Finally, we propose that the resolution welcomes the inclusion of the attribution science in the chapter outlines for the IPCC's seventh assessment report, including attribution of large-scale changes of extreme and compound effects. events and encourage the inclusion of information relevant to legal attribution, thereby strengthening the science-law interface with underpins due diligence and assessments under the general law of state responsibility and mechanisms to strengthen accountability. We respectfully invite members to consider co-sponsoring and supporting the proposed resolution and look forward to working with all on its expeditious adoption. Mr. President, to conclude, the court has provided clear legal guidance informed by 109 states and international organizations that participated in the advisory producing. proceedings, reflecting the truly global significance of this issue. The law of the sea requires action to protect the oceans from the greenhouse gas pollutions. Regional human rights law requires action to protect people and their rights. And now the principal judicial organ of the United Nations has clarified that climate obligations are owed to to the international community as a whole and must be performed with the highest possible ambition, with responsibility engaged with their breach. The General Assembly must now do its part. Vanuatu is pursuing the resolution in a spirit of cooperation and equity and with profound respect for the Court and for this Assembly. We look forward to working with all delegations to carry it forward and to achieve consensus. Thank you. GA · PGA [2:56:49]: I thank the representative for Vanuatu. I now take, I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Philippines. Philippines [2:57:06]: Thank you, Mr. President. The Philippines thanks His Excellency Judge Yuji Iwasawa, President of the International Court of Justice, for presenting the Court's annual report covering the period from August 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025. We commend the Court for its indispensable role as the principal judicial organ of the United Nations. The report attests not only to the Court's impressive productivity, but more importantly, to the continued confidence of states in law as the foundation of peace and justice. Mr. President, the Philippines reiterates its unwavering commitment to the rule of law and a rules-based order anchored in the Charter of the United Nations and international law. We view the court as essential to the obligation under the Charter to resolve disputes by peaceful means and in conformity with the principles of justice and international law. This principle was given special meaning through the 1982 Manila Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of International Disputes, which reinforced the Charter and reaffirm the Court's role as the principal judicial organ of the UN and encourage its use in resolving disputes peacefully. The reporting period has been one of exceptional activity. The Court rendered three judgments and one landmark advisory opinion on the obligations of states in respect of climate change. The Philippines welcomes this historic opinion, which affirms the obligations to protect the climate arise from existing treaties and customary international law. For climate-vulnerable nations such as ours, this opinion reinforces the international legal basis for climate action rooted in human rights, intergenerational equity, and the imperative of sustainable development. We are therefore proud to have joined the core group of states led by Vanuatu, working on a General Assembly resolution to take forward the implementation of the advisory opinion. Mr. President, we recognize the Court's vital role in ongoing contentious cases concerning racial discrimination, genocide, state immunity, and maritime delimitation, issues central to peace, human rights, and sovereign equality. The geographic and thematic diversity of cases before the court illustrates both its universal jurisdiction and the growing reliance of states on judicial settlement and a peaceful alternative to force. The court's rising caseload and unprecedented level of activity are welcome indicators of global trust in the international legal system. but they also underscore the need for adequate resources. We therefore support the provision of sufficient and predictable funding to enable the Court to discharge its expanding mandate efficiently and effectively. The Philippines, having recognized the compulsory jurisdiction of the Court since 1972, renews its call for other states to do the same. greater acceptance of the Court's jurisdiction strengthens the international rule of law and the peaceful settlement of disputes. We also encourage the Security Council to make fuller use of Article 96 of the Charter, requesting advisory opinions from the Court on complex questions of law relevant to peace and security. Such recourse reinforces the coherence of the UN system and enhance the Council's legitimacy. Beyond its judicial work and advisory work, we commend the Court's outreach and capacity building programs, and capacity building programs, particularly the Judicial Fellowship Program and its trust fund, which expand access for young jurists from developing countries. We are proud that a Filipino fellow has joined this program. contributing to the diversity and vitality of the world court. Mr. President, the Philippines reaffirms its enduring faith in the International Court of Justice as the world's court. In an era of uncertainty and confrontation, the court embodies the conviction shared by all peace-loving nations that disputes among states must be resolved not by might, but by law. We will continue to uphold this We will continue to uphold with conviction and consistency the vision enshrined in the Charter and the Manila Declaration that peace can only rest on justice and justice only on law. We are therefore pleased to have co-hosted with the Asian-African Legal Consultative Organization the side event on the briefing on recent developments in the International Court of Justice on October 30, as provided by ICG President Yuji Iwasawa, and thank his Excellency for the honor. Thank you, Mr. President. GA · PGA [3:02:36]: I thank the distinguished representative of the Philippines. We have had the last speaker in the debate on this item for this meeting. We shall hear the remaining speakers this afternoon at 3:00 PM in this hall. The meeting is adjourned.