Implementation & Assessment Group Meeting of the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism, New Delhi (February 08-10, 2017)

Pursuant to the announcement made by Prime Minister at the Nuclear Security Summit held in 2016, Ministry of External Affairs in coordination with the Department of Atomic Energy is hosting the Implementation and Assessment Group Meeting of the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism on 8-10 February, 2017 at the Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra, New Delhi. Approximately 150 delegates from various GICNT partner countries and international organisations will be participating in this event.

This event highlights India’s commitment to global nuclear non-proliferation and peaceful uses of nuclear energy. It is a part of our overall engagement with the international community on nuclear security issues. India hosting this meeting highlights the continued priority we attach to nuclear security, our efforts to further strengthen the institutional frameworks, capacity building and enhance international cooperation.

The possible use of weapons of mass destruction and related material by terrorists is no longer a theoretical concern. A breach of nuclear security may lead to unimaginable consequences. Such an event would have a global impact. It is imperative to strengthen international efforts to combat such threats. This meeting is therefore timely and important and would further enhance our vigil.

Foreign Secretary of India, Dr. S. Jaishankar will be inaugurating the meeting. The meeting will conclude with an address by Dr. R. B. Grover, Member, Atomic Energy Commission of India.

GICNT was launched in 2006 jointly by the Russian Federation and the United States. In the past ten years, it has grown to include 86 partner nations and five official observer organisations and has held several multilateral activities in support of its Statement of Principles. GICNT comprises four working groups viz. Implementation and Assessment Group, Nuclear Detection Working Group, Nuclear Forensics Working Group and Response and Mitigation Working Group. India has been an active participant at the GICNT events.

New Delhi
February 04, 2017