NNN calls for use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes

PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for the use of nuclear energy to boost struggling countries to create a sustainable supply of energy.

Her call came on Friday, 26 September, at the United Nations Trusteeship Council in New York, coinciding with the annual International Day of Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons.

“We must, in equal measure, double down on our efforts to promote the peaceful uses of atomic energy,” she said.

The president said Namibia largely remains energy dependent, and its intention is to make use of its source material as part of the country’s energy mix.

“Our decision is based on the inalienable rights of countries to develop, research, produce and use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes,” she said.

Nandi-Ndaitwah called for the accountable use of nuclear energy to ensure comprehensive safeguards are in place and to remove any limitations and restrictions on the use of nuclear material, equipment and technology for peaceful purposes, consistent with the provisions of relevant multilateral treaties.

It is only through transparent cooperation and technology sharing, she said, that the peaceful uses of nuclear energy can improve the quality of life for all.

She also called on countries to further strengthen cooperation in the area of nuclear medicine and cancer care, including supporting the capacity of developing countries through technology transfer.

Meanwhile, she cautioned that the modernisation of nuclear weapons is still a major threat – a matter that should be of global concern.

She said the final objective of the efforts of all states should continue to be the general and complete disarmament under effective international control, the immediate goal is the elimination of the danger of a nuclear war and implementation of measures to avoid an arms race and clear the path towards lasting peace.

To underline this objective, she stated that Namibia is seeking membership to the Nuclear Suppliers Group, which seeks to ensure the peaceful nature of nuclear trade while contributing to strengthening the non-proliferation regime.

“For the sake of our future generations, we must continue to speak out loudly against nuclear weapons and their use, ” she said.

She urged all states to continue to strongly support all nuclear disarmament treaties and related efforts.

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