Kazakhstan, China to counter illegal movement of nuclear materials

Kazakhstan and China will jointly oppose the illegal movement of nuclear and radioactive materials and waste, as well as radiation-hazardous objects. Today the Senate of the Kazakh Parliament passed the bill on ratification of the agreement, which provides for enhanced and deeper cooperation of the parties in the fulfillment of international obligations. They primarily relate to ensuring radiation safety by controlling checkpoints on the customs border of the parties.

“The procedure for joint radiation monitoring will be determined by a working group that consists of representatives of the customs authorities of the parties and experts of training centers. The ratification of this agreement will contribute to a more specific and effective legal regulation of issues related to the procedure for preventing the illegal movement of nuclear materials, radioactive materials, radioactive waste and radiation-hazardous objects between Kazakhstan and China. Implementation of the agreement does not require additional financial costs from the state budget,” said Yerulan Zhamaubayev, Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister, Finance Minister.

If the radiation background exceeds the limits established in the importing country during the transportation of goods and vehicles, the export of these goods to the territory of the country of the other party will not be allowed. In general, it is expected to modernize border checkpoints, conduct special exercises and training seminars.

Translation by Saniya Sakenova

Editing by Saule Mukhamejanova