�� On March 13, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a meeting with Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (#IAEA) Rafael Mariano Grossi.

During the conversation, the Sides held a constructive exchange of views on key aspects of cooperation between Russia and the IAEA. Russia’s significant contribution to the work of the organisation was noted.

Particular attention was paid to the situation surrounding the attacks by the US and Israel on Iran’s peaceful nuclear facilities placed under IAEA safeguards, as well as to issues related to ensuring the safety and security of the Zaporozhskaya Nuclear Power Plant.

Some other aspects of the international agenda of mutual interest were also touched upon.

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�� Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks during his talks with Rafael Grossi:

Russia was among the countries that stood at the origins of the International Atomic Energy Agency and remains convinced that the IAEA deserves the broadest possible support.

In today’s world – particularly over the past couple of years – the Agency, like any other multilateral structure dealing with non-proliferation issues, is being tested as Western colleagues attempt to restore their dominant positions across global politics.

☝️ In this context, it is particularly important to adhere to the statutory principles of the IAEA:

– to maintain impartiality,
– to ensure a depoliticized approach,
– to focus exclusively on fulfilling the tasks that formed the basis of the agreements establishing the Agency, including guaranteeing access for all NPT member states, without exception, to the benefits of peaceful nuclear energy.

I believe this is a very timely opportunity to discuss these developments in detail.

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