While the IAEA may be best known for its work in nuclear non-proliferation, its activities in the peaceful uses of nuclear technology are of crucial importance for development and recovery, particularly in a post-pandemic world. “We have to leave this dark page of the pandemic behind us and stand up again as a global society. The IAEA has something to contribute,” said IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, today in a meeting with participants of the Fifth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament taking place in Vienna.
Mr Grossi welcomed to the IAEA about 60 speakers and heads of delegations from around the world and underscored the Agency’s efforts to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from climate change and plastic pollution to cancer care. Members of parliament play a critical role in setting the direction of countries’ policies, Mr Grossi said. “A lot of what we do is enabled by parliaments, and you, as parliamentarians, help us to improve the lives of those we serve,” he added.