Madam Chair,

The Chinese delegation associates itself with the statement delivered by the distinguished Ambassador of Mongolia on behalf of the Far East Group under this item.

China supports the early inclusion of Kazakhstan and other Arealess countries into regional groups, thus ensuring their full and equal rights to participate in all IAEA activities on the same footing as other member states. China also appreciates the efforts made by Gustavo ZLAUVINEN, Ambassador of Argentina as the Chair of the "Group of Friends of Arealess IAEA Member States" to resolve this issue. China encourages relevant regional groups to demonstrate flexibility and actively accept arealess countries in their midst.  

The protracted failure to resolve the issue of arealess countries stems from the fact that the composition of the IAEA Board of Governors has fallen far behind the times, failing to meet the urgent needs of the broader membership, particularly the growing number of developing countries, to participate in the Board's work. Expanding the Board’s seats is the fundamental solution to this problem. China believes that member states should further intensify efforts to accelerate the ratification of the amendment to Article VI of the IAEA Statute by more countries, facilitating the early entry into force of this amendment. At the same time, member states should engage in serious discussions on further expanding the representation of the Board, with the aim of developing a more equitable, reasonable, and feasible solution that addresses substantively the legitimate concerns of the broader membership, especially Global South, regarding participation in the Board’s work.  

China stands ready to work with all member states and actively contribute to these efforts.  Thank you, Madam Chair.