Amano takes charge of IAEA

Yukiya Amano has taken charge of the International Atomic Energy Agency. In a short statement to reporters on Tuesday, he talked about a number of current difficulties, and several issues that he aims to solve.

Yukiya Amano, New IAEA Director-General, said, "Now, we have lots of difficult issues, challenges, but I will have to do my best. I would like to address the global issues. That includes non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, enhancing security, nuclear security, addressing the energy needs, providing good health care and water management among others."

Amano also pledged to improve communication between the IAEA inspectorate and the agency's 35-nation Board of Governors.

The 62-year-old Japanese diplomat replaces Nobel Peace Prize laureate Mohamed ElBaradei, who is retiring after 12 years in the position. The new IAEA chief, and his agency, are faced with unresolved issues of deep concern, including those involving the DPRK and Iran.