Officials from the International Atomic Energy Agency stated that despite the global financial crisis, the demand for new nuclear power plants is expected to continue to grow in the long term. A conference in Beijing is being held to discuss the future of atomic power in light of the economic slowdown, climate change concerns, and tensions surrounding the nuclear programs of countries like North Korea and Iran. While the financial crisis may pose challenges for funding nuclear power projects in the short term, the need for energy security and addressing global warming is likely to offset the impact on the sector. Thierry Dujardin from the OECD's Nuclear Energy Agency noted that although finding funding for energy infrastructure like nuclear power plants may be harder in the current economic climate, the overall demand for nuclear energy is expected to remain strong. Dong Batong, a representative of China's atomic energy industry association, stated that despite the slowdown in growth, China is dedicated to significantly increasing nuclear power. He emphasized that nuclear power is seen as an important tool for boosting domestic demand, with numerous new nuclear units either being built or planned throughout the country. The International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna reports that nuclear power currently supplies 14 percent of global electricity, and this percentage is expected to rise as countries aim to lower fuel costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming. Most of the anticipated growth in nuclear power is expected in Asia, with China leading the way in terms of nuclear power plants under construction, followed by India and South Korea. Yuri Sokolov, the deputy director-general of the IAEA, emphasized the importance of maintaining safety standards and safeguards against weapons proliferation in the ambitious plans for nuclear power growth in the developing world. He stated that governments expanding nuclear energy must ensure regulators are supported by effective legislation and adequately trained staff. Despite North Korea's recent actions, Sokolov believes that every country has the right to have civilian nuclear programs, including North Korea. He acknowledged the challenges presented by North Korea and expressed hope that international cooperation could support civil nuclear power development in the country if it is willing to work with the international community. North Korea withdrew from the IAEA several 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, will deliver an opening speech at the nuclear energy meeting on Monday.