The new chief of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Japanese diplomat Yukiya Amano, took office on Tuesday, replacing Egyptian diplomat Mohamed el Baradei who has been serving the agency for 12 years.

Amano, 62, who is an arms control expert, arrived in Vienna for his first day as director-general at the United Nations agency.

As you can see, it is raining, Mr. Amano said as he arrived.

But the situation surrounding the agency is stormy now. We have a lot of difficult issues and challenges, but I would like to do my best, he said.

Amano served as Japan’s ambassador to the IAEA from August 2005 until his selection as director-general in July 2009.

Last week, the watchdog's 35-member board passed a stern resolution against Iran over its controversial nuclear program, which the IAEA has been investigating for the past seven years.

I would like to address the global issues, that include non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, enhancing nuclear security, addressing energy needs, providing good healthcare and water management among others, Mr. Amano said.

I try to be impartial, reliable and professional as director general. I would like to get your support.

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