In the lead-up to the Aug. 29 International Day Against Nuclear Tests, the Society had the privilege of participating in a fascinating roundtable on global non-proliferation, nuclear disarmament, and cooperation on the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. The roundtable was hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Canada.
Kazakhstan and Canada have a great deal in common. As the top two global producers of uranium, both of our countries are dedicated to living up to our important responsibilities in preventing nuclear weapons proliferation. At the same time, we each pursue nuclear energy generation in order to reduce global emissions, address looming electricity supply shortages, and build thriving and resilient high-tech economies. As countries that have rejected nuclear armament while sharing borders with nuclear-armed superpowers, we experience similar geopolitical challenges and concerns.
The educational presentations and roundtable commentary were tremendously informative, thought provoking, and sobering. We were left with a deep respect for the peace-loving people of Kazakhstan, who persevered amidst the harm caused by decades of nuclear weapons testing on their soil. Upon independence, the people of Kazakhstan removed their inherited stockpile of nuclear warheads and became global leaders in promoting non-proliferation and disarmament.
And now, following a national referendum, they have democratically decided to pursue the peaceful uses of nuclear energy through the construction of ultra-low emissions nuclear generating stations and the production of life-saving medical isotopes. As a union representing thousands of nuclear scientists and technical experts, we were greatly appreciative that Dr. Togzhan Kassenova brought special attention to the largely unsung role that nuclear professionals played in Kazakhstan’s disarmament process.
It is an inspiring story, and our countries have much to learn from each other. There are many opportunities ahead for collaboration on the use of nuclear technology for peace and prosperity. Our sincere thanks are offered to His Excellence Daultabek Kussainov and the kind and helpful staff at the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan for their generous invitation to the Society to participate in this important and enlightening discussion.
