Highlights - Debate with the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency - 16 March 2021 - Subcommittee on Security and Defence

On Tuesday 16 March, MEPs examined with Rafael Grossi the IAEA's activities and challenges related to non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and peaceful use of nuclear energy.

The Subcommittee on Security and Defence, the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy focused on the challenges posed by the global non-proliferation regime, questions related to nuclear safety and security, as well as peaceful ways to use nuclear energy, including applications designed to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

MEPs also assessed the consequences of Iran's recent decision to suspend the application of its safeguard agreements with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). MEPs questioned the IAEA Director General about how the agency can carry out its monitoring tasks in the future and ensure that the Iranian nuclear programme is being used solely for peaceful purposes.