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Lithuanian authorities have a need to assess the likely radiological impact of Belarusian NPP on Lithuanian population and environment and adjust the plans for state emergency preparedness more accurately.

In accordance with the provisions of the Convention on Nuclear Safety (CNS) at the end of 2019, Lithuanian State Nuclear Power Safety Inspectorate (VATESI) has requested the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Belarus (MES) to provide detailed information on possible releases of radioactive materials from a Belarusian NPP in the event of a severe nuclear accident. At the end of 2020, the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Belarus reacted to request, but not submitted the required information.

“Belarus delay to provide requested information could be considered as a failure of Belarus to fulfil its obligations under the Convention on Nuclear Safety” – says VATESI Head Michail Demčenko.

By a new letter VATESI repeatedly call on the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Belarus to provide the requested information. The President of the planned meeting of the Parties to the Convention and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), were also informed about a repeated request.

The Convention on Nuclear Safety provides an obligation of the Contracting Party (Belarus) in whose territory the nuclear installation is located (Belarusian NPP) to provide, at the request of a neighbouring country, which is likely to be affected by the nuclear installation, the necessary information in order to make its own assessment of the potential impact of a nuclear installation on its territory.