U.N. chief asks new uses for atom energy

UNITED NATIONS – U.N. nuclear chief Mohamed ElBaradei urged the world’s nations Monday to adopt a broad new plan for the use of atomic energy to address mounting concerns about the further spread of sensitive technology.

He said a new approach is essential because rising global demand for energy has made atomic power a more attractive option and proliferation threats remain a serious challenge, including
North Korea’s recent test,
Iran’s uranium enrichment program, and nuclear trafficking.

ElBaradei reiterated his call for the urgent resumption of talks with all concerned parties to the North Korea standoff, and he expressed hope that Iran and key European nations and others can ultimately engage in “long overdue” negotiations that resolve questions about Tehran’s nuclear program and address its security concerns.

The International Atomic Energy Agency, which ElBaradei heads, continues “to be unable to confirm the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program, which is a matter of concern,” he said.

AP