The International Atomic Energy Agency's director-general emphasized the importance of recognizing North Korea's possession of nuclear weapons and pursuing dialogue despite its violations of U.N. sanctions and international law. The agency expressed concerns over the lack of international engagement with North Korea since 2006, leading to a significant expansion of its nuclear program.
The director-general stressed the need to condemn North Korea's nuclear activities while also advocating for proactive dialogue to prevent the situation from escalating further. He highlighted the importance of diplomatic efforts to rebuild trust and engage with Pyongyang on issues such as nuclear safety.
Recent revelations of a secret facility in North Korea producing weapons-grade uranium have underscored the urgency of addressing the country's nuclear program. The agency confirmed the existence of a vast nuclear program in North Korea with limited visibility in terms of international nuclear safety standards.
Amidst growing concerns over nuclear proliferation, the agency also highlighted the modernization of nuclear weapons programs by countries like China, the United States, and Russia. The director-general expressed alarm over Russia's revised nuclear doctrine, which lowered the threshold for potential nuclear weapon use.
Regarding Iran, the agency welcomed President Masoud Pezeshkian's willingness to engage on the 2015 nuclear deal and expressed readiness to work towards a stronger framework. The agency plans to visit Tehran soon to discuss the potential return to an agreed nuclear framework.
In light of escalating tensions and potential nuclear threats, the agency emphasized the critical need for diplomatic dialogue and international cooperation to address nuclear proliferation and ensure global nuclear safety.
