Big powers say nuclear treaty at risk, cite Iran

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Nuclear energy to meet rising needs, says PM

appeal tried to address grievances of developing nations ahead of another meeting in 2009 to finalize proposals for a decision-making NPT Review Conference in 2010, five years after the last one collapsed amid squabbling.

Nuclear states have said that what the NPT needs most is tougher safeguards on transfer of nuclear technology.

Developing states balk, saying this would wipe out their NPT right to peaceful uses of atomic energy. They also say the original nuclear powers have undermined respect for the treaty by lagging on commitments to disarm, a charge they deny.

The five powers championed IAEA-driven proposals for a multilateral nuclear fuel bank under depoliticized agency control to supply refined uranium to developing states as an alternative to indigenous development of enrichment.

This was a high priority for the 2010 conference, in addition to stronger non-proliferation safeguards, they said.