IAEA to help China and Qatar on nuclear security

The United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has made plans with China and Qatar to help the two countries in developing their nuclear security regimes.

The ‘practical arrangements’ signed with China and Qatar cover activities which are part of a broader plan to help countries in improving their nuclear security regimes. The plan aims to achieve improved worldwide security of nuclear and other radioactive material.

According to the terms of the arrangements, announced in a news release, the IAEA will advise the two countries on physical protection measures for nuclear facilities and will help to provide equipment for the prevention and detection of criminal acts involving nuclear and other radioactive material.

The arrangements also include the possibility for the IAEA to provide nuclear security consultation, advisory missions, training and assistance in response to nuclear or radiological security incidents if requested.

In addition, the Agency will help the China Atomic Energy Authority to work together to enhance nuclear security arrangements for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

In 2004 the Agency assisted Greece with a nuclear security plan for the Athens Olympic Games. More recently, the IAEA signed an arrangement with Brazil relating to the security of the 15th Pan-American Games taking place in Rio de Janeiro next month.