IAEA Board of Governors
Agenda item 5a: The conclusion of safeguards agreements and of additional protocols
9 June 2026
Statement delivered by Dr Sarah Goodall, Alternate Representative of Australia to the IAEA
Chair,
Australia congratulates Tonga on its decision to conclude an Additional Protocol to its Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement. The combination of a comprehensive safeguards agreement (CSA) and an additional protocol (AP) is the current verification standard, equipping the IAEA with the tools to develop a complete picture of a state’s nuclear activities.
Tonga and Australia share a strong commitment to the safeguards and non-proliferation system, including as parties to the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty (the Treaty of Rarotonga).
By concluding an Additional Protocol to its CSA and bringing it into force, Tonga will further strengthen safeguards implementation in the Pacific region.
Thank you, Chair.