IAEA support to Thailand to develop nuke power

Bangkok, July 16: The visiting Chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) today offered support to Thailand to acquire infrastructure to develop nuclear power as an alternative energy source.

IAEA Director-General Mohamed AlBaradei, who is in Thailand at the invitation of the Thai Ministry of Science and Technology, met Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont this morning to discuss nuclear cooperation.

''The IAEA and Thailand would strengthen cooperation in developing the infrastructure of a nuclear power plant equipped with proper security and adequate technology so that the economy can develop through the maximum usage of nuclear energy,'' Mr AlBaradei said.

Mr Chulanont said Thailand would soon have to consider the use of nuclear energy and start preparing for it.

''The preparations might take time, including training expert personnel and promotion of public awareness,'' he said.

The IAEA chief addressed the National Congress on Science and Technology here today and will leave for Malaysia tomorrow.

UNI