A CLAUSE calling for Iran to meet the targets of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) within six months was passed at the 14th Bahrain Model United Nations (Bahmun) yesterday.

The clause submitted by France also called for Iran to submit monthly progress reports on uranium mining, processing and waste disposal to the IAEA. According to the clause, the country must allow the IAEA to conduct random inspections on all its uranium processing facilities and nuclear power plants.

"Technically, Iran is a threat to European countries because we are suspicious that it hasn't complied with IAEA resolutions," said IAEA French representative Montana Shaikh from St Christopher's School.

"They have signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, but they are not communicating with us. They should be allowing us to inspect their uranium mines.

"This debate with Iran has been going on for years. The issue must be dealt with now, otherwise it will get worse. We don't want to go there directly and aggravate the situation. That's why we are giving them six months to comply."

The IAEA was debating the question of Iran's right to own and use nuclear technology.

On this issue, it also passed a clause stating if Iran did comply with the IAEA, then it should increase its diplomatic alliances with other nations and in turn this would strengthen the country's trade activities and economy.

The IAEA rejected a clause for the temporary suspension of Iran's nuclear power activities because it would harm the Middle East economy. Those for the clause argued that nuclear power was not one of Iran's main source of income and would have little effect on its economy.

The IAEA will today tackle the question of the GCC researching the possible use of nuclear technology as an alternative source of energy in the near future.

Bahmun is a simulated meeting of the UN General Assembly (GA), the Security Council (SC), the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the Human Rights Commission (HRC) and the IAEA.

It simulates the process of negotiations, discussion, diplomacy and lively debate, which are the cornerstone of the UN.

More than 450 from 40 private and government schools are participating in the three-day event, held at Al Raja School, Manama.

The 15 to 8-year-olds from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are representing 200 different countries and UN agencies and include Press, administration, security staff and alumni.

Students

In their groups, students represent a specific country, or organisation and deliver an opening speech on their countries' or organisations' policies at the start of the meeting. They then enter into lobbying, debate and later voting.

Bahmun is organised by the Rotary Club of Adliya and held under the patronage of Education Minister Dr Majid Al Nuaimi.

A closing ceremony will be held today at 4.30pm, when students will present the resolutions they have passed.

becky@gdn.com.bh