Question : IRAN` S NUCLEAR PROGRAMME

(a) whether the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has found any evidence of the nuclear programme being run by Iran for military purposes;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) if not, the reasons for punitive action taken against Iran;

(d) whether the member countries of NAM has defended the right of countries like Iran to develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes;

(e) if not, the details thereof;

(f) whether US is reluctant to discuss Israel’s nuclear programme in the United Nations Security Council;

(g) if so, the reaction of the Indian Government thereto; and

(h) the role played or being played by India to assert the rights of majority countries to develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI PRANAB MUKHERJEE)

(a)-(c) The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has stated that while it is able to verify the non-diversion of declared nuclear material in Iran, it is unable to verify the absence of undeclared nuclear material and activities in Iran unless Iran addresses outstanding verification issues.

(d)-(e) In a Statement on the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Nuclear Issue, issued in Havana on 16th September 2006, the Heads of State or Government of NAM, inter alia, reaffirmed the basic and inalienable right of all States, to develop research, production and use of atomic energy for peaceful purposes, without any discrimination and in conformity with their respective legal obligations.

(f)-(g) Do not arise.

(h) Government have always maintained that countries should pursue their right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy in accordance with their international obligations and commitments.