130th IPU Assembly and Related Meetings

Geneva, 16-20 March 2014

Standing Committee on Peace and International Security 

„TOWARDS A NUCLEAR-WEAPON-FREE WORLD: THE CONTRIBUTION OF PARLIAMENTS”

                                                      Cristian-Constantin ROMAN  

                                                Member of the Chamber of Deputies

                                                         ROMANIA

Mr. Chairman,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The subject we are examining today is of crucial importance for all the countries and peoples in the world.

It is all the more important for us, parliamentarians, to agree on certain key-messages and recommendations in support to nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Romania continues to pursue the objective of a world without nuclear weapons, in accordance with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), and the 2010 NPT Review Conference Action Plan. 

The NPT remains one of the pillars of international security and the cornerstone of the nuclear non-proliferation regime. We strongly promote a comprehensive and balanced approach towards the three pillars of the NPT regime, while reiterating that the future viability of the Treaty relies on its full implementation and the achievement of its universality.

My country, during a period of nearly 23 years of constant efforts, has proved commitment and determination to abandon the use of highly enriched uranium and implement international non-proliferation policies.

Our legislative action focused on the need to down-blend the nuclear power plants, prevent illicit trafficking of nuclear fissile material, provide radiological security, and to create an interface between nuclear safety and security.

Let me mention also that in line with the UN Secretary General’s five point proposal on nuclear disarmament - more precisely the fifth one on complementary measures, including in the area of conventional arms - our parliamentary committees are currently examining, in view of ratification, the Arms Trade Treaty, signed by Romania on 3 June 2013.   

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

As a country with a relevant civilian nuclear program, we support the right of any State to benefit from the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, provided that non-proliferation, safety and security requirements are entirely met.

The production of electricity and the production of radioisotopes for medicine and industry are key-areas in my country’s national development programs and international cooperation.

At the same time, we are participating in the development of Generation IV nuclear power reactors, in the framework of various European projects.

Based on our positive experience, I want to emphasize - as a key recommendation - the importance of providing continuous training of human resources – in particular, the younger generation of specialists – for the safe operation of nuclear facilities and the peaceful use of nuclear materials and technologies.

Thank you very much for your attention!