Iran invites the UN nuclear body chief to Tehran for talks

• IAS NEXT, Lucknow
• 17, Nov 2021

Reference News:

Iran has invited the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for talks after the UN official expressed concern over a lack of contact with Iranian authorities.

• Previously, the IAEA complained that it had been denied “indispensable” access to a centrifuge component manufacturing workshop where it needed to service equipment.

Need for these measures:

Iran has produced more than 120 kilograms (265 pounds) of 20% enriched uranium,  far more than what the U.N. nuclear watchdog had reported.

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA:

The 2015 deal promises Iran economic incentives in exchange for limits on its nuclear program, and is meant to prevent Tehran from developing a nuclear bomb.

• The U.S. unilaterally pulled out of the deal in 2018 under then-President Donald Trump, but Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia have tried to preserve the accord.
• Under the deal with world powers, the other signatories were to provide Iran with 20% enriched uranium needed for its research reactor.
• Under the terms of the nuclear deal, Iran was prohibited from enriching uranium above 3.67% with the exception of its research reactor activities.

About IAEA:

• Set up as the world’s “Atoms for Peace” organization in 1957 within the United Nations family.
• Reports to both the United Nations General Assembly and Security Council.
• Headquarters in Vienna, Austria.

Functions:

• Works with its Member States and multiple partners worldwide to promote the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear technologies.
• Seeks to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and to inhibit its use for any military purpose, including nuclear weapons.

Programs:

1. Program of Action for Cancer Therapy (PACT).
2. Human Health Program.
3. Water Availability Enhancement Project.
4. International Project on Innovative Nuclear Reactors and Fuel Cycles, 2000.