Madam Chair,

China notes that since the outbreak of the Ukraine crisis, the IAEA Director General, Rafael Grossi, and the Secretariat, with the support of member states, have carried out a series of efforts to address nuclear safety and security issue at Ukrainian nuclear power plants. Last week, the DG made his 12th visit to Ukraine since February 2022 and also visited Russia to further strengthen communication with both sides. He is continuing his efforts to ensure the safety and security of relevant nuclear power plants and to resolutely avoid any man-made nuclear accidents.

China consistently supports these efforts by the IAEA and encourages DG Grossi and the Secretariat to maintain effective communication and cooperation with relevant parties to ensure the safety, security and smooth operation of the IAEA teams, including routine rotations of team members.

The safety of nuclear facilities is one aspect of the Ukraine crisis, and its assurance ultimately depends on the prospects for a political settlement of the crisis. Given the current complexity of the Ukraine issue, the hope for peace is putting the political endurance and wisdom of all parties to the test. China is in favour of all efforts conducive to peace and supports direct dialogue and negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, and advocates for a political solution of the crisis. We hope that the international community will create an enabling environment for a political solution and that all parties will play a constructive role in enhancing communication and coordination.

China places great importance on the safety and security of nuclear facilities and is against armed attacks on nuclear power plants and other peaceful nuclear installations. We will continue to follow “Four Principles” outlined by President Xi Jinping and actively promote peace talks and mediation while maintaining an objective and impartial stance. China seeks to play a constructive role in advancing a political settlement to the Ukraine crisis, so as to eliminate nuclear safety and security risks at the root. We stand ready to remain engaged with all parties on this issue.

Thank you, Madam Chair.