Lukashenko: BelNPP construction project prioritizes safety

MINSK (BelTA) – Safety is the main priority of the Belarusian nuclear power plant construction project, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said as he met with Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Yukiya Amano on 19 April, BelTA has learned.

The head of state said that the visit of the IAEA director general is important for Belarus, especially in view of the development of the peaceful atom and the construction of the Belarusian NPP. “I would like you to visit the construction site and make sure of the priorities that we pursue while building the nuclear power plant. The safety of the NPP is the main priority. All countries having technologies for the construction of nuclear power plants made corresponding conclusions from the consequences of the Chernobyl and Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accidents. Therefore, this issue (safety. – BelTA's note) is our main priority in the process of construction,” Alexander Lukashenko said.

The President also emphasized that Belarus pays much attention to the training of highly-qualified personnel for the operation of the NNP. “We have done a lot in this field. We have trained them, invited specialists from all over the world. We have founded an ultra-modern training center. And we are ready to continue close cooperation with your organization in the future and fulfill all your requirements,” the Belarusian leader remarked.

Alexander Lukashenko guaranteed that nuclear materials will be safely stored in Belarus. “We will do our best to ensure the absolute protection of these materials so that no one could even make an attempt to take possession of such nuclear materials for the sake of terrorism. You can be absolutely sure of our reliability,” the head of state said.

The President also said that the Belarusian side was satisfied with the level of cooperation with the IAEA and its Director General Yukiya Amano. “We will do our utmost to help you continue your active work for the benefit of the entire mankind,” Alexander Lukashenko concluded.