The Hindu : National : Cabinet approves ratification amending IAEA convention

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Saturday, Jun 16, 2007
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Cabinet approves ratification amending IAEA convention

Special Correspondent

It's for physical protection of nuclear material

NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet on Friday approved ratification of the amendment to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Convention on Physical Protection of Nuclear Material, which seeks to strengthen the international legal framework for combating terrorism and enhance global cooperation in investigation, prosecution and extradition of those involved in terrorist acts and acts of sabotage involving radioactive material or nuclear devices and facilities.

The State Parties to the Convention had adopted the amendment at a diplomatic conference held at the headquarters of the IAEA in July last.

It was to strengthen the provisions of the Convention, particularly for including terrorist acts and acts of sabotage against nuclear materials and facilities among the offences that the State Parties were required to make punishable under their domestic laws.

Apart from making it legally binding for the State Parties to protect their nuclear facilities and materials, the amendment will also provide for expanded cooperation among the State Parties with regard to measures to locate and recover stolen or smuggled nuclear material, mitigate any radiological consequences of sabotage and prevent and combat-related offences.

The Cabinet also decided to amend the Extradition Act to bring it in tune with the amendment.

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