The United States has expressed its appreciation for the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) draft Annual Report for 2024, highlighting the agency's efforts in advancing nuclear science and technology globally. The statement was delivered by Howard Solomon, Chargé d’Affaires, ad interim, during the IAEA Board of Governors Meeting in Vienna on June 9, 2025.
Solomon began by acknowledging Deputy Director General Lydie Evrard for her service over the past four years as head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security. He praised her leadership in responding to increased demands while maintaining high safety and security standards.
The U.S. welcomed the report, which outlines significant activities undertaken by the IAEA to benefit its Member States. "The global benefits derived from the development and transfer of nuclear technologies for peaceful applications, enhanced nuclear safety and security, and strengthened nuclear verification in support of nuclear nonproliferation worldwide all help to form a sound basis for why 180 Member States believed in the importance of joining the IAEA," Solomon stated.
Director General Grossi's initiatives such as Rays of Hope, Zoonotic Disease Integrated Action, and Nuclear Harmonization and Standardization Initiative were noted for their roles in promoting safe nuclear science advancement.
Solomon highlighted the agency’s swift response to technical issues faced by Member States. He cited assistance provided to Ukraine on nuclear safety and security, as well as monitoring Japan’s release of treated water from Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. The U.S. commended Japan's decommissioning efforts at Fukushima and adherence to IAEA standards.
Additional commendations were given to China’s Third Institute of Oceanography, Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety, and Switzerland’s Spiez Laboratory for their independent monitoring contributions regarding Japan’s water dispersal plan.
The U.S. acknowledged ongoing efforts by the Secretariat to enhance results-based management within the agency amid growing demand for services. This includes utilizing advanced IT services like artificial intelligence to streamline operations.
In conclusion, Solomon stated that with these observations, they support recommending the draft Annual Report for 2024 (GOV/2025/18) be submitted for approval at the General Conference after necessary corrections.