The General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency, or IAEA, has begun in Austria's capital, Vienna.

Representatives from 168 nations attended Monday's opening ceremony. In the week-long conference, there will be some 30 exhibitions, forums and sideline talks, aimed at showcasing the achievements in the fields of nuclear science and technology.

In 60 years, the number of member nations within the IAEA has grown from 26 to 168. The agency also set up organizations in over 180 countries to carefully monitor nuclear facilities and materials.

"The agency has achieved a lot in the past six decades. By making nuclear science and technology available to improve human wellbeing and prosperity, we have made a real difference to the lives of millions of people throughout out the world," said Yukiya Amano, IAEA Secretary General.

"We have also made a unique contribution to international peace and security through our work to verify that nuclear material remains in peaceful uses."

"I would like to express my gladness for participating in this general conference, which happens to be coincident with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the IAEA," said Ali Akbar Salehi, head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization.