SCO adopts declaration on nuclear safety partnership

Bishkek (ANTARA) - The Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on Tuesday (1/9) adopted a declaration on strengthening multilateral partnerships for nuclear safety and security.

In the declaration, SCO member states emphasised that while every nation bears full responsibility for its nuclear security, the responsibility for nuclear safety lies with the operators of nuclear facilities and the host nations where such facilities are located.

Member states expressed deep concern over the illegal trafficking of nuclear materials and other radioactive substances, threats to nuclear facilities and infrastructure (including cybersecurity), and the risk of nuclear terrorism.

In the declaration, they also firmly condemned any attacks or threats of attacks against peaceful nuclear facilities, viewing such actions as violations of international law. They called for restraint from such actions, which pose a threat to international peace and security.

SCO members assessed the need to take effective measures to prevent nuclear and radiological emergencies and to ensure the physical security of nuclear materials, other radioactive substances, and related facilities, according to the document.

They also called for the strengthening of domestic control mechanisms over nuclear materials and other radioactive substances, the promotion of joint education, scientific research, and technological projects, the expansion of cooperation, and the exchange of best practices and experience in the safe operation of nuclear facilities.

Member states also agreed to conduct joint exercises and training among their respective competent authorities, strengthen early warning systems, and, if necessary, share technical data, forecasting models, and analytical information in real-time, while ensuring the security and confidentiality of sensitive information.