Iraq backs additional NPT safeguards

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VIENNA, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Iraq displayed its clear commitment to nuclear non-proliferation by signing onto the Additional Protocol, the IAEA announced from Vienna.

Iraqi Ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency Surood Rashid Najib met in Vienna with IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano and said Iraq agreed to ratify the Additional Protocol of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

"The ratification of the Additional Protocol is clearly a significant step for Iraq in demonstrating its resolve in meeting its non-proliferation commitments under relevant treaties, agreements and resolutions," said Amano in a statement. "It is very welcome and can serve as a laudable example for the region and the world."

Iraq was found to have abandoned its nuclear ambitions following a rigorous inspection regime supported by the United Nations. David Kay, a former weapons inspector, had said there was no evidence to suggest Iraq took significant steps to build nuclear weapons after 1998.

Iraq's ratification brings the total number of states to sign onto the Additional Protocol to 119.