The 69th Session of the IAEA General Conference is underway in Vienna

The 69th session of the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA GC) is taking place in Vienna from 15 to 19 September 2025.

The IAEA GC was opened by IAEA Director General R. M. Grossi, who in his opening speech addressed current challenges and the impact of geopolitical developments on the IAEA’s activities and activities. He pointed out the key importance of verification mechanisms and the justification for international cooperation in addressing global challenges. He expressed his belief that the IAEA, given the growing interest of states in new technologies, will continue to play a key role in ensuring the safe peaceful use of nuclear energy.

The GC elected Peter Burian, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Representative of the Slovak Republic to the UN, OSCE and other international organizations in Vienna, as President of the 69th session of the IAEA GC.

The Chairperson of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority of the Slovak Republic, Marta Žiaková, delivered the national address of Slovakia in the general debate, in which she reported on the progress in the Slovak nuclear energy program, especially in connection with the commissioning of Unit 3 and the construction of Unit 4 of the Mochovce nuclear power plant, the Slovakia’s engagement in the issue of small modular reactors (SMRs), the dominant position of nuclear power in the Slovak energy mix and its contribution to meeting the goals of sustainable development and climate plans. Support was expressed for nuclear safety and protection, including information on the preparation for the subsequent international IRRS mission in 2026. The speech also expressed support for the IAEA’s activities in Ukraine in the field of nuclear safety, protection and security, in the implementation of safeguards and maintaining a continuous IAEA presence in all locations of Ukrainian nuclear facilities. Slovakia has traditionally confirmed its strong support for the IAEA mandate and the technical cooperation program.