Dapkiunas: Belarusian NPP reduced annual greenhouse gas emissions by 7m+ tonnes

Belarus is ready to share its experience in developing nuclear energy infrastructure – as stated by the country’s Permanent Representative to the International Organisations in Vienna, Andrei Dapkiunas, at the 69th session of the IAEA General Conference

In his speech, the diplomat reported on the Belarus-IAEA co-operation, noting that it is actively developing. “A nuclear power plant has been successfully operating in Belarus for five years, and its importance is evidenced by the fact that the station meets two-fifths of the national electricity needs. The operation of the Belarusian NPP has reduced annual greenhouse gas emissions by more than 7 million tonnes. From the very beginning of the implementation of the national nuclear energy programme, the republic has been committed to the highest standards of nuclear and radiation safety. We are open to constructive professional expert dialogue with all interested parties, including our Lithuanian neighbours,” he said.

During last year's visit to the Belarusian NPP, the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Director General and other officials had the opportunity to see firsthand the safe and efficient operation of the plant.

"We highly appreciate that visit and the substantive discussion of the entire range of co-operation issues during it,” Mr. Dapkiunas added. “Next year, it will be forty years since the Chernobyl disaster, and the signing of a document on practical foundations of the IAEA co-operation with the Polesie State Radiation and Ecology Reserve a few weeks ago has become symbolic ahead of this date. Having fully utilised the agency's expertise and support tools, Belarus is now ready to share its experience in developing nuclear energy infrastructure. We are convinced that sustainable development of the peaceful atom is possible only through strengthening co-operation and the IAEA unbiased work.”