Former AEOI head urges prioritization of nuclear safety collaboration

The former head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) urged the AEOI to collaborate with relevant organizations concerning Iran’s accession to international nuclear safety conventions, emphasizing the importance of ensuring Tehran’s interests.

Addressing a seminar on Tuesday, Ali Akbar Salehi referenced three significant nuclear incidents worldwide— Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, and Fukushima. He highlighted Japan’s efforts to anticipate events such as high-power earthquakes and tsunamis, noting Tokyo’s prediction of an eight-meter tsunami.

Salehi noted that despite the Fukushima accident in March 2011, the safety systems at the power plants were robust enough to mitigate extensive radiation effects.
He emphasized that no deaths resulted from radiation or pollution caused by the plant explosion, attributing fatalities to the earthquake and tsunami.

Quoting Ali Maleki, the head of Iran Radioactive Waste Management Company, Salehi underscored the country’s efforts over the past several years to simulate the Fukushima accident for waste management purposes.
He praised the expert reports on radiation protection presented by Iranian specialists and organizations.

Highlighting the nuclear industry’s sensitivity and public opinion, Salehi stressed the need for staying updated. He emphasized the international community’s emphasis on standardization in nuclear waste disposal, stating that every country engaged in nuclear activities must adhere to global standards.

Salehi noted the International Atomic Energy Agency’s responsibility to enhance standards and oversee nuclear safety worldwide.
He criticized the country’s failure to approve the nuclear safety convention, citing the necessity of membership due to the presence of the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
He concluded by reaffirming that as a nuclear nation with a nuclear power plant, Iran must be a member of such conventions.