Value of technology for development

We are gathered here for the purpose of sharing our experiences, working together and helping each other in order to chart a course of direction to more effectively utilize nuclear energy for sustainable development, while ensuring that it is used by authorized institutions worldwide. We believe that increased, but proper, use of this energy resource is bound to lead to a more prosperous, peaceful and secure world. At first glance it would seem out of place to dwell upon a rather broad theme, Value of Technology for Development, during a conference dedicated to the issues of security against abuse of nuclear technology. However, it makes good sense to recount the enormous benefits which demand continued use of this technology in spite of a myriad of concerns. Many of the concerns mentioned earlier are important. As such these concerns need to be addressed effectively - the earlier the better. However, we need to chalk out strategies for averting the risks associated with the widespread use of nuclear technology as well as encourage the utilization of this bounty of nature for accelerated development of the poor countries. I will limit my submissions to nuclear technology only. However, there are other technologies, such as biotechnology and information technology, which are expected to transform the patterns of development in a fundamental way in the coming decades. While limiting the scope of my presentation in this sense, I would like to make an essential addition to the requirement of development by emphasizing its sustainability. It is all too important that present needs are met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. In my view, the development of nuclear technology becomes necessary when viewed in terms of its impact on a longer time scale