By NNN-WAM,
Abu Dhabi : The UAE has said that it will work directly with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and conform with its standards in evaluating and potentially developing a peaceful nuclear energy programme.
”The UAE hopes to develop any peaceful nuclear power capability in partnership with the governments and firms of responsible nations, and appropriate non-governmental organisations,” Hamad Ali Al-Kaabi, UAE Permanent Representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) told a gathering of nuclear energy in the Gulf hosted here Monday by the Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research.
”Recent analysis of future domestic electricity demand and supply conducted by official UAE bodies has concluded that increasing demand for electricity is fast outstripping the growth in supply. Total electricity demand in the UAE is expected to rise from approximately 15,000 megawatts to 42,000 megawatts by 2020,” he explained.
”Significant new generation capacity must be constructed and brought online. It was concluded that peaceful nuclear power generation represents an environmentally promising and commercially competitive option which could make a significant contribution to the UAE’s economy and future energy security.”
To make clear its intentions with regard to nuclear power, he maintained, the government of the UAE has prepared and formally endorsed its policy on the evaluation and potential implementation of nuclear ennergy as a reflection of its views on the potential establishment of a peaceful civilian nuclear energy programme.
The policy defines the framework under which the programme will be developed and is based on principles including complete operational transparency, highest standards of non-proliferation, highest standards of safety and security, work directly with the IAEA and conform with its standards in evaluating and potentially developing a peaceful nuclear energy programme.
The UAE hopes to develop any peaceful nuclear power capability in partnership with the governments and firms of responsible nations, and appropriate non-governmental organisations.
The UAE will approach any domestic nuclear power programme in a manner that best ensures long-term sustainability.
In fulfilling these commitments, many activities are being conducted under the policy framework.