Qatar Urges Further Global Efforts to Eliminate Nuclear Weapons

Vienna, September 15, 2026 : The State of Qatar has called for intensified international efforts to completely eliminate nuclear weapons, describing the goal as both a humanitarian responsibility and a moral imperative amid rising armed conflicts, nuclear arms competition, and the growing use of force in international relations.

Al Hammadi Calls for Multilateral Action

Speaking at the 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, HE Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi said multilateral action was needed to address growing threats to international peace and security. He reaffirmed Qatar's support for the IAEA's independent and professional work in promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy, strengthening nuclear safety and security, and maintaining an effective safeguards system to prevent proliferation.

Regional Tensions, Arms Race Highlighted as Key Concerns

Al Hammadi pointed to escalating geopolitical divisions and armed conflicts, including ongoing Israeli military actions against the Palestinian people, the crisis in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, and the accelerating nuclear arms race. Qatar called for stronger international support for arms control and disarmament mechanisms, describing the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty as a cornerstone of the global system, while reaffirming its support for establishing a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons.

Qatar Rejects Attacks on Peaceful Nuclear Facilities

Al Hammadi stressed that nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards and dedicated exclusively to peaceful purposes are protected under international law, the UN Charter, and the IAEA framework. He said Qatar rejects any attacks or threats against such facilities, warning that such actions would undermine regional and international peace and security.

Qatar Welcomes Decision on Syria's Safeguards Agreement

Qatar also welcomed the IAEA Board of Governors' unanimous decision on September 9, 2026, to remove the item concerning implementation of the safeguards agreement in Syria from the board's agenda. Al Hammadi said the decision would allow Syria to restore its normal status within the agency and expand its use of peaceful nuclear applications to support development, reconstruction, and stability.

Qatar Highlights Support for Rays of Hope Initiative

Qatar further highlighted a USD 600,000 agreement signed through the Qatar Fund for Development to support IAEA projects under its Rays of Hope initiative, including efforts to strengthen radiotherapy capacity in Syria.

Qatar Reaffirms Commitment to Nuclear Disarmament

Al Hammadi said Qatar remains committed to nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy, describing the IAEA as a key partner in expanding peaceful nuclear applications and strengthening nuclear and radiological security.

Technical Cooperation Programs Outlined

He outlined Qatar's technical cooperation programs with the IAEA, which include strengthening regulatory oversight, improving radioactive waste management, developing national radiation monitoring capabilities including PET-MRI scan technology, research aimed at combating Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), and enhancing food safety. Qatar signed an agreement with the IAEA in February 2026 to update its national policy on radiation and nuclear security and strengthen its legal and regulatory framework.

Qatar Reaffirms Strong Partnership with IAEA

Al Hammadi concluded by reaffirming Qatar's commitment to a strong and sustainable partnership with the IAEA, saying the agency plays a crucial role in advancing international cooperation and developing legal frameworks aimed at ensuring a safe and sustainable future for nuclear energy and achieving the complete elimination of nuclear weapons.

Source: QNA