IAEA Chief highlights potential for Isfahan conference to address global challenges

Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi speaks to the media at his return from his official visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran, on May 7, 2024, at the Vienna airport in Vienna, Austria. (Photo by Joe Klamar / AFP)

Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, expressed optimism about the potential for the International Conference on Nuclear Sciences and Technologies in Isfahan, Iran, to offer solutions to pressing global issues.

During his address at the conference, Grossi emphasized the significant challenges faced by the world in areas such as health and energy, underlining the role that nuclear energy can play in addressing these challenges.

Grossi pointed out the alarming statistic of 4 million annual cancer cases worldwide and highlighted the increasing occurrences of flash floods attributed to global warming.

He referenced the recent UN Climate Change conference’s emphasis on achieving zero carbon emissions as a crucial step in combating climate change.

Asserting the importance of finding practical solutions to global challenges, Grossi suggested that the Isfahan Conference could contribute to addressing these pressing issues.

On a separate note, Grossi also expressed disappointment over the lack of satisfactory cooperation from Iran regarding its nuclear program, calling for concrete measures to address concerns and urging for improved collaboration.