Nuclear Suppliers Group Working Group on Overlap

The document is a summary of the meeting of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) Working Group on Overlapping, held in Stockholm on May 31 and June 1. The meeting discussed the issue of overlapping in nuclear supply agreements. The participants expressed different views on the problems caused by overlapping, particularly related to the interpretation of Article 9 of the Guidelines. The discussions were extensive, but no conclusive outcomes were reached.

The summary highlights that the meeting did not provide a definitive resolution to the issue of overlapping. However, it improved the understanding of the problems involved and clarified the issues faced by Japan. The possibility of future overlapping was acknowledged, and it was agreed to continue consultations on this matter. The French delegation proposed that countries exercising their rights under Article 9 should coordinate to avoid duplication. The French also emphasized the importance of maintaining IAEA standards.

The summary acknowledges that the report does not provide specific recommendations or conclusions but notes that the discussions helped participants understand each other's positions better. It is recognized that further action may be needed in the future as countries gain more experience with prior consent rights and their application.

The document concludes by stating that the report will be formally sent to the Chairman of the NSG by the Swedish delegation, who served as the Chairman of the Working Group.