Bolstering Nuclear Security at China Olympics

It is reported that China and the IAEA have been working over the last 18 months to bolster the country´s security plan and minimize threats at the Summer Olympics, during 8-24 August, 2008 at Beijing. A radiological dimension was added to their existing security plans so that security for the Olympics is as comprehensive as possible.

The thrust of the IAEA´s work in Beijing is to help integrate radiological planning into existing security arrangements for police, intelligence community and bomb squads based in China. Through advisory missions and training exercises, the IAEA is assisting Chinese authorities with various aspects of radiation detection, physical protection, and emergency response. Efforts to enhance nuclear security arrangements for the Games are largely coordinated with the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA).

For several years now, the IAEA has provided specialized technical assistance and expert advice to countries who host major public international events. In addition to its work on the 2008 Summer Games, the IAEA has supported nuclear security measures for the 2004 Olympics in Greece, the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, and the 2007 Pan American Games in Brazil.