NEW CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE FOR NUCLEAR SECURITY IS LITHUANIA’S CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL EFFORT TO COMBAT ILLICIT NUCLEAR SMUGGLING
The main objective of the Centre of Excellence for Nuclear Security is the development of in-service training and exercises in the field of nuclear security for employees of competent institutions, and the strengthening of interaction and cooperation.
According to Ignatavičius, there is a real threat that nuclear materials can fall into wrong hands. Just last year, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) registered 147 criminal or unauthorized acts involving nuclear material.
The Vice-Minister stressed that joint training exercises, sharing best practices and experiences in the field of nuclear non-proliferation and security would contribute to closer cooperation and increase security of the region.
The diplomat also thanked the U.S. partners for their important role in and support for the establishment of the centre and development of its activities.
Event was also attended by representatives from the Office of the President, the Seimas (Parliament), the Government, foreign embassies in Lithuania, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and the U.S. delegation.
The U.S. Ambassador to Lithuania Anne Derse noted that recently Lithuania had taken up a leadership role in the important fight against nuclear terrorism. The Ambassador confirmed that the U.S. authorities were ready to work hand in hand with Lithuania and provide support for the newly set-up centre.
The Centre of Excellence for Nuclear Security was set up by the Lithuanian State Border Guard Service.
The establishment of the centre is a result of long and complex consultations and negotiations between Lithuania, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other foreign partners.
At the Nuclear Security Summit on March 27, the IAEA’s leadership promised to provide all the necessary assistance to the Centre of Excellence for Nuclear Security, which Lithuania was planning to establish at that time.
The centre will accumulate information about refresher courses in the field of nuclear safety in Lithuania and abroad, carry out the analysis of their need and come up with annual plans for training. In cooperation with national and international institutions, the new centre will develop training programmes, education means, and emergency scenarios, and will participate in emergency training exercise. The Centre of Excellence for Nuclear Security will also take care of the development of the infrastructure that is necessary for training and exercises, and will publish information publications, represent the country at local and international seminars, conferences, meetings on the issues of nuclear security.
