IAEA Board of Governors Meeting
Statement by Ms Amelia Appleton, Alternate Resident Representative to the IAEA
Agenda Item 7(e) (Syria): Implementation of the NPT safeguards agreement in the Syrian Arab Republic
6 June 2018
Chair,
We thank the Director General for his update on the implementation of safeguards in the Syrian Arab Republic in his introductory statement to the Board, and for his continued work to address Syria’s non-compliance with its safeguards obligations.
Chair,
Australia continues to be deeply concerned by Syria’s lack of action to address outstanding questions about its facilities and activities at the Dair Alzour site.
We regret that there has been no progress on this matter over successive years despite the efforts made by the IAEA.
Australia once again urges Syria to fully cooperate with the Agency in line with the Resolution adopted by the Board of Governors on 9 June 2011.
Until this occurs, we will continue to draw attention to Syria’s non-compliance.
Chair,
It remains Australia’s firm view that this issue – as with any instance of non-compliance with nuclear safeguards obligations – is a matter of considerable concern, and that it must remain on the IAEA Board of Governors agenda until such time as it is satisfactorily resolved.
Thank you.