IAEA Officially Removes Non-Compliance Item Regarding Syria
The Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has unanimously adopted a decision to remove the non-compliance item concerning Syria from its agenda. This development follows Damascus’s successful fulfillment of all comprehensive technical and legal requirements, marking a milestone in the Syrian peaceful nuclear program and underscoring the transparency and cooperation demonstrated by relevant national authorities.
In an official statement, the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission (SAEC) emphasized that this strategic achievement is the result of intensive national and diplomatic efforts spanning a year and a half. The commission stated that the Syrian government managed the file with confidence and capability, confirming its commitment to international standards. At the same time, the SAEC reiterated Syria’s sovereign right to develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including applications in radiology medicine, agriculture, and scientific research, in accordance with the comprehensive safeguards agreement.
Politically, this decision concludes a prolonged period during which the Syrian nuclear file was utilized as a tool for international political pressure, effectively closing the door on future attempts to impose restrictions or sanctions under this pretext. The move represents an explicit international acknowledgment of the seriousness of the Syrian approach and recognizes the unprecedented cooperation provided by the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission. The commission facilitated the necessary technical and logistical support for international verification, ensuring that all discovered materials were brought under the international monitoring and safeguards system.
Dr. Mudar Al-Akla, Head of the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission, had previously noted that the commission, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, worked to provide all technical requirements necessary to complete assessments regarding nuclear materials and residues related to previous stages. These efforts were conducted within the framework of the safeguards system adopted by the IAEA.
This development is expected to pave the way for enhanced international cooperation with Syria. It is anticipated to facilitate the flow of research grants, training fellowships, and the exchange of advanced expertise with other nations, ultimately reflecting positively on the country’s technological and healthcare sectors.
