Norway assists in the implementation of the agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme

The agreement between the P5+1 countries (the US, Russia, the UK, France, China and Germany) and Iran was reached in July 2015 after several years of extensive efforts. Under the agreement, Iran has committed itself to restricting its stockpile of low-enriched uranium to a maximum of 300kg. This means that Iran needs to dispose of its excess enriched uranium in order to comply with the agreement. At the same time, Iran needs fuel for its nuclear reactors.

‘Reducing the amount of low-enriched uranium is a key part of the agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme, and it is important for making sure that Iran does not intend to develop nuclear weapons. Norway is directly supporting the work of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and is thus playing a vital part in the implementation of the agreement,’ said Mr Brende.

Norway has provided support for 60.000kg natural uranium (uranium concentrate) and its transportation from Kazakhstan to Iran, amounting to around USD 6 million. Iran has also transported unused enriched uranium fuel out of the country. Experts from the Norwegian Radiation Protection Authority have verified and controlled the transportation of the natural uranium. This took place on 27 December.

‘The implementation of the agreement will be a victory for the international non-proliferation regime and for international diplomacy. Norway’s support to the IAEA and the agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme is an example of disarmament and non-proliferation work in practice. It also reflects the importance the Government attaches to concrete, effective action in this field. The implementation of the agreement will not only strengthen the global non-proliferation regime; it will also contribute to greater stability in the Middle East,’ said Mr Brende.

UN Security Council resolution 2231 calls upon all UN Member States to support the implementation of the agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme. On 15 December, the IAEA Board of Governors confirmed that Iran had so far fulfilled its obligations under the agreement and that its nuclear programme had no military purpose. Norway’s contribution to the implementation of the agreement is in line with the efforts taking place in the run up to the Nuclear Security Summit, which will be held in Washington in spring 2016. Norway has provided extraordinary funding for the IAEA’s monitoring of the implementation of the agreement since 2013. So far, this has amounted to NOK 14 million.