IAEA Board of Governors
Agenda item 6(b): Implementation of the NPT Safeguards Agreement in the Syrian Arab Republic
9 September 2025
Statement by H.E Ambassador Ian Biggs, Governor and Resident Representative of Australia to the IAEA
Thank you Chair
Australia thanks the Director General for the update provided in his opening statement to the Board on the implementation of safeguards in the Syrian Arab Republic. We commend the Director General and the Secretariat for their continued dedication to resolving Syria’s longstanding non-compliance with its safeguards obligations.
Chair
Australia notes with appreciation the Director General’s report on Syria, including the results of environmental sampling, site visits, and analysis, which contribute to a clearer understanding of Syria’s past nuclear activities.
Australia welcomes Syria’s engagement with the Agency. We urge Syria to continue extending its full cooperation with the Agency to assist in its verification efforts and to resolve all outstanding questions, including through facilitating access to relevant locations and information pertaining to Syria’s past nuclear activities. Furthermore, Australia encourages Syria to bring into force an Additional Protocol, which would demonstrate its commitment to enhanced transparency.
Chair
Until all outstanding questions concerning Syria’s non-compliance are fully and satisfactorily resolved, Australia supports the continued inclusion of this item on the agenda of future Board meetings. We look forward to the further reporting from the Agency that will contribute to greater transparency and progress in resolving these longstanding issues. We once again thank the Director General for his efforts and for keeping Member States apprised of developments.