Mr. Amano acknowledged active approach of the Czech Republic and its long-standing support to the Agency not only in the form of high-level expertise provided, but also as a regular and predictable contributor to the IAEA´s activities. He specifically recognized essential contribution of Ms. Dana Drábová, Chair of the Czech State Office for Nuclear Safety and of the IAEA Commission on Safety Standards, to the comprehensive Fukushima report that is being prepared by the Agency.

Director General also appreciated Ambassador Galuška´s professional career, which includes not only extensive diplomatic experience, but also activities intimately linked to nuclear industry in the Czech Republic. He also informed him of a newly launched IAEA project to renovate Nuclear Science and Applications Laboratory in Seibersdorf, Austria. Last but not least, Mr. Amano thanked the Czech Republic for accepting IAEA review and other teams on a regular basis, thus not only fostering its nuclear safety and security, but also enabling the Agency to test new modules and missions before their routine introduction, as well as to train its staff.

Ambassador Galuška confirmed unremitting support to the activities of the IAEA, considered by the Czech Republic the world´s center of cooperation in the nuclear field. He congratulated Mr. Amano on his re-appointment as Director General and expressed the hope to welcome him soon in the Czech Republic at an official visit.

Photo: www.iaea.org