Nuclear safety, security and peaceful uses
Since the conflict in Ukraine began in February 2022, the IAEA has been monitoring the situation. Mr Kishida expressed Japan’s support for the IAEA’s work in Ukraine and the five basic principles to prevent a nuclear accident at Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), which were established by Mr Grossi at the UN Security Council in May.
Mr Grossi met with Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, who reiterated Japan’s support for the IAEA’s work towards nuclear safety and security in Ukraine. The two also discussed non-proliferation issues.
“The IAEA plays a key role in critical issues on the international agenda,” Mr Grossi said. “I am grateful for Japan’s support of IAEA's work in non-proliferation, nuclear safety and security, and promoting peaceful nuclear energy use for global goals.” Japan has been a member of the IAEA since the Agency’s inception in 1957. It is currently participating in 31 technical cooperation projects, covering the agricultural, environmental and health care sectors.
In Tokyo, the Director General also met with other high-level officials, including Yasutoshi Nishimura, Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, and Shinsuke Yamanaka, Chairman of the Nuclear Regulation Authority.
In meetings with President and CEO of Astellas Pharma, Naoki Okamura, and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation’s Honorary Chairman Yohei Sasakawa and President Atsushi Sunami, Mr Grossi discussed the IAEA’s work towards development goals through nuclear techniques and IAEA projects like Rays of Hope, NUTEC Plastics and ZODIAC.
The IAEA partners with countries and the private sector to implement such initiatives: Rays of Hope helps low- and middle-income countries establish and improve access to radiation-based medical technologies; NUTEC Plastics integrates nuclear and isotopic techniques to address plastic pollution; and ZODIAC supports countries’ efforts to address diseases that spread from animals to humans – known as zoonotic diseases.
On Thursday, Mr Grossi visited the Rokkasho Reprocessing Plant. He toured the uranium enrichment plant, MOX fuel fabrication plant and the joint on-site lab where IAEA conducts safeguards. “The Rokkasho Reprocessing Plant is a crucial part of Japan's nuclear fuel cycle,” Mr Grossi said. “As the plant moves towards operation, we're set to enhance our presence.”
Mr Grossi also visited the Rokkasho Fusion Institute, which is “a testament to Japan's commitment to advancing nuclear technology,” he said. “It's inspiring to see the progress and dedication in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.”
On Friday, the Japan Atomic Industrial Forum hosted Mr Grossi for a meeting with companies across different sectors. Mr Grossi discussed the IAEA’s flagship initiatives, like Rays of Hope and NUTEC Plastics. Last year, Mr Grossi invited Japanese companies to partner with the IAEA to help scale up the global fight against cancer through Rays of Hope. “Partnerships with the private sector are vital to our efforts to tackle world challenges and to meet global goals,” he said.
