The United States and Romania have released a joint statement at the Global Forum to Prevent Radiological and Nuclear Terrorism, held in Bucharest from November 13-15, 2024. The forum was endorsed by several countries including Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, Czechia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Ireland, Japan, Lithuania, Montenegro, The Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, Poland, Republic of Croatia, Republic of Korea, Republic of Slovenia, Spain, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.

Participating nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening global radiological and nuclear security through international cooperation. They emphasized adherence to multilateral conventions and legal frameworks to counter radiological and nuclear terrorism.

The Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism (GICNT), co-chaired by Russia and the United States for over fifteen years until activities were paused following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This pause created a gap in international efforts against radiological and nuclear terrorism. The Global Forum aims to fill this gap by fostering continued international cooperation.

The statement highlighted the need for vigilance against the risk of radiological and nuclear materials falling into the hands of terrorists or non-state actors. It also stressed the importance of international cooperation in minimizing these risks as nations pursue nuclear power options.

The participating countries committed to upholding nuclear security principles for deterrence and response against radiological and nuclear terrorism. They aim to develop global capacity consistent with national legal authorities and international frameworks such as ICSANT and CPPNM.

Efforts will focus on preventing illicit acquisition or use of radiological materials and responding to incidents involving such materials. This includes strengthening global activities through collective capabilities and supporting IAEA’s nuclear security assistance.

The statement concluded with a call for all concerned states to join in building a safer world against the threat of radiological and nuclear terrorism.