23 January 2002

Burma -- Nuclear Research Project with Russia

Following is the text of a question taken at the January 23 regular State Department briefing on a nuclear research project Burma is undertaking with Russian assistance. An answer was posted later in the day.

Question Taken At January 23, Daily Press Briefing

Burma: Russian Nuclear Reactor

Question: How does the U.S. feel about Burma embarking on a nuclear research project with the help of Russia? Are there structural safety and security concerns? Are there weapons proliferation concerns?

Answer: As a party to the Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT) since 1992, Burma is of course entitled to share in the benefits of peaceful nuclear cooperation. But, we would like to know more about the nature of the reactor, the anticipated purpose of the reactor, and the safeguards that would be applied to it.

Burma has also accepted International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards on the totality of its nuclear projects (that is, "full-scope" safeguards), which would include this research reactor. Russian Nuclear Suppliers Group obligations would allow it to supply this reactor only under those conditions.

We expect the government of Burma to live up to its obligations and to not produce unsafeguarded fissile material.

Safety and security are of paramount importance at any nuclear reactor. Post 9/11 it makes sense for all countries to take extra precautions to ensure the security of sensitive materials and facilities. We would expect Russia and Burma to ensure international safety standards are met.