STRENGTHENING SAFEGUARDS THROUGH REGIONAL COOPERATION: ESTABLISHMENT OF THE ASIA-PACIFIC SAFEGUARDS NETWORK

Reflecting factors such as the program to strengthen IAEA safeguards, the increasing recognition of the importance of a well-functioning SSAC (State System of Accounting and Control) to safeguards effectiveness and efficiency, and the growing interest in nuclear energy in Asia, for many years heads of national safeguards agencies in the Asia-Pacific region have been discussing the establishment of a framework for regional safeguards cooperation. This culminated in agreement in April 2009 to establish the Asia-Pacific Safeguards Network (APSN). APSN formally came into operation on 1 October 2009. APSN comprises organisations involved in nuclear safeguards matters in states of the Asia- Pacific region. Currently organisations from 14 states have joined APSN or are expected to do so. APSN’s aim is to strengthen the quality, effectiveness and efficiency of safeguards implementation in the Asia-Pacific region, working closely with the IAEA, through activities such as training, professional development and sharing of experience. APSN provides a forum for safeginterest.