Touching on a range of other topics, the IAEA chief also spoke about the role of nuclear energy in the run-up to the global climate summit in Paris later this year, presented the Nuclear Security Report 2015 and encouraged the active participation of Member States in the IAEA’s Scientific Forum, to be held next week, focusing on the industrial application of nuclear technology and its importance for development.

During its five-day meeting, the 35-member Board will discuss measures to strengthen international cooperation in nuclear, radiation, transport and waste safety, and the IAEA’s technical cooperation activities, among other topics.

In his statement, Mr. Amano welcomed the recognition of the importance of science and technology for development in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which are expected to be approved in a few weeks’ time.

“The Agency has for many years made a major contribution to development by making nuclear science and technology available in areas such as food production, water management and agriculture. Our work deserves greater recognition,” he said.

Mr. Amano highlighted the important role the IAEA can play in assisting countries to meet the SDG target of reducing cancer-related deaths by a third in the next 15 years. “I believe this is an achievable goal provided there are strong partnerships among the international organizations concerned,” he said, noting that through its technical cooperation and human health programmes, the IAEA “has a long history of supporting Member States in developing the capacity and infrastructure for cancer control.

Available at: http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=51813#.VfGGmNKqpHw