Officials from the International Atomic Energy Agency stated that despite the global financial crisis, there is expected to be continued long-term demand for new nuclear power plants. They are meeting in Beijing to discuss the future of atomic power in light of economic challenges, climate change, and concerns over the nuclear programs of certain countries. While funding for new nuclear power plants may be more difficult to secure in the short term due to the financial crisis, the overall need for energy and concerns about energy security and global warming are likely to support the nuclear energy sector. Dong Batong, a representative of China's atomic energy industry association, expressed that despite a slowdown in growth, China remains dedicated to significantly increasing nuclear power. He stated that nuclear power is being utilized as a key strategy to boost domestic demand, with numerous new nuclear units currently under construction or in the planning stages throughout the country. The International Atomic Energy Agency reports that nuclear power currently accounts for 14 percent of global electricity production, a number that is expected to rise as countries aim to lower fuel costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The majority of this expansion is projected to take place in Asia, with China leading the way in terms of nuclear power plant construction, followed by India and South Korea. However, the ambitious plans for nuclear power expansion in the developing world also pose a risk of compromising safety standards and measures against weapons proliferation. Yuri Sokolov, deputy director-general of the IAEA, emphasized the importance of governments ensuring that regulators are supported by effective laws and well-trained personnel when expanding nuclear energy. Despite facing criticism for recent actions, even North Korea has the right to pursue nuclear power facilities, according to Sokolov. He acknowledged that each country has the right to a civilian nuclear program, referring to North Korea as a "difficult situation." Sokolov expressed optimism that with cooperation from the international community, support could be provided for the development of civil nuclear power in North Korea. North Korea withdrew from the IAEA years ago and recently kicked out IAEA officials who were invited to monitor a closed nuclear facility that North Korea plans to reopen. Mohamed ElBaradei, the director-general of the IAEA, is scheduled to deliver the opening speech at the nuclear energy meeting on Monday.