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Statement Geneva, 7 May 2003 Mr. Chairman, With regard to peaceful uses of nuclear energy, Article I of the Treaty, among others, aims to prevent Nuclear Weapon States from encouraging, assisting or stimulating the production or possession of nuclear weapons by non-nuclear weapons states. In the past decade, the interpretation of this article has led to much discussions, for considerable overlap exist between the technologies necessary for the civil use of nuclear energy and those that are necessary for the production of nuclear weapons. It is also essential to reiterate the importance of international cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy which is one of the fundamental pillars of the NPT. Both the 1995 and 2000 review exercises reaffirmed the validity of Article VI and the inalienable right of all states parties to unimpeded and non-discriminatory transfer of nuclear technology and materials to the developing countries as these play an indispensable role in catering to the requirements of national development. Towards these objectives, Indonesia supports the role of IAEA in assisting States parties to formulate international cooperative projects within the framework of peaceful uses of nuclear energy through the development of effective programmes aimed at improving their scientific, technological and regulatory capabilities based on each country’s priority needs and decisions. In this regard, it is of the view that preferential treatment be given to the non-nuclear weapon States parties to the Treaty in all activities designed to promote the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. This would eventually help to overcome the technological and economic disparities between developed and developing countries. Mr. Chairman, Indonesia recognizes the important role of the IAEA under three pillars of its mandate : technology, safety and verification. In particular, it serves as a catalyst for sustainable development through the transfer of nuclear science and technology, as a key contribution to global nuclear safety and as a cornerstone for nuclear non-proliferation. Therefore, new strategy for technical cooperation which seeks to promote socio-economic impact by integrating its assistance into the national development programme of each country is necessary. This has become essential in the context of expanding nuclear programs in the developing countries. We are also gratified that international innovative projects are underway in many countries under its auspices which will identify promising technologies. The Agency will thus continue to play an indispensable role in assisting these countries to improve their scientific and technological capabilities. Needless to say that these lofty objectives can only be achieved by assured, unimpeded and predictable access to the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
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