Statement by the Austrian Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs

As the IAEA has repeatedly pointed out, millions of radioactive sources have been distributed worldwide over the past 50 years and are used to benefit humankind in a wide range of medical, agricultural, industrial and research applications. The security of radioactive materials has traditionally been relatively light. Hence there is a clear need to strengthen existing security measures as well as to identify and implement additional measures against the potential malevolent use or accidental misuse of radioactive sources. As radiation knows no boundaries, the security of radioactive sources is a legitimate concern of all States. Thus countries must demonstrate to their own citizens as well as to the international community that strong and effective security systems are in place and that the dangers stemming from terrorists who are determined to wreak havoc on the civilized world are not being underestimated. It is by the security we provide that we as governments will be judged by our citizens. This conference is important, because the conference can 'help foster a better understanding of the nature of the threats of potential malevolent use, on ways to diminish the likelihood of such threats occurring, and of the necessary measures for preparedness and response in case they do occur'