By Mubarak Al-Hajri
VIENNA, Sept 19 (KUNA) -- Kuwait gained a seat at the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) board of governors during the 63rd Annual Regular Session of the Agency's General Conference, said statement on Thursday.
Kuwaiti Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna Sadeq Marafi told KUNA, Kuwait's membership will last for two years in the board of governors, the highest executive policy making body in the agency.
He stressed that Kuwait's membership in board comes in recognition of Kuwait's role as an active participant in the IAEA various activities.
Kuwait will actively participate in the work of the board by enhancing technical and professional work in order to reach the aspirations of member countries, he added.
In 1964, Kuwait joined IAEA and is keen to support the work in its various abilities and vital work in promoting peaceful uses of atomic energy, health and welfare throughout the year, Marafi noted.
In addition, Kuwait continues its' committed to support IAEA's work in response to regional and international problems in order to achieve the goals of sustainable development.
Marafi pointed out that Kuwait has contributions in several IAEA vital projects, such as the modernization of laboratories in Seibersdorf, Monaco and the Peaceful Uses Initiative (PUI), as well as contributing to the support of the low-enriched uranium bank.
Kuwait joined the Board of Governors during the years 1977-1979, 1987-1989 1995-1997 and 2001-2003, adding that Ambassador Nabila Al-Mulla presided over the work of the board during 2002-2003, he added.
Meanwhile, Kuwaiti delegation participated in IAEA 63rd annual session included members of Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS). (end) mao.ha