Despite substantial progress in strengthening nuclear security in recent years, more needs to be done worldwide to defend against the threat of nuclear terrorism and other malicious acts involving nuclear or radiological material. This was mentioned in a Ministerial Declaration at the IAEA’s International Conference on Nuclear Security: Enhancing Global Efforts which kicked off in Vienna on Monday.

The Declaration - the first of its kind for nuclear security – notes that all States are responsible for their own nuclear security, but that international cooperation is important in supporting States' efforts to fulfil their responsibilities. It affirms the central role of the IAEA in strengthening nuclear security globally, and leading coordination of international activities in this field, press release said.

The conference convened by IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano brought together 1,300 delegates, 34 government ministers and 31 representatives of state agencies and NGOs.

Armenian delegation is headed by permanent representative Arman Kirakosyan. In his speech, Kirakosyan reiterated Armenia’s commitment to non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and use of nuclear energy in peaceful purposes.