Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is taking part in the 69th Regular Session of the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The conference is held at the IAEA headquarters in Vienna from 15th to 19th September. This year’s theme, “Global Cooperation in the Nuclear Field,” emphasizes the importance of countries working together to use nuclear energy safely, securely, and for peaceful purposes.
The IAEA General Conference is a major international event where leaders, experts, and policymakers from all over the world come together. They discuss the latest developments in nuclear energy, safety measures, regulations, and international collaboration. For the UAE, this conference provides a platform to showcase its nuclear achievements and share its experience with other nations.
UAE Delegation Led By Ambassador
The UAE delegation is led by Ambassador Hamad Al Kaabi, the Permanent Representative of the UAE to the IAEA. The team includes officials from the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) and the Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC). FANR oversees nuclear safety, regulation, and security, while ENEC manages the development and operation of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant.
The presence of both FANR and ENEC ensures that the UAE can fully participate in technical discussions and policy dialogues. It also allows the country to share its practical experiences in operating a safe and advanced nuclear program while learning from global partners.
Strong Partnership With IAEA
During the plenary session, Ambassador Al Kaabi highlighted the long-standing partnership between the UAE and the IAEA, which has lasted more than five decades. He noted that this collaboration has been crucial in establishing a peaceful nuclear energy program that strictly follows international safety, security, and non-proliferation standards.
He explained that the UAE’s nuclear program focuses on generating clean electricity and supporting sustainable development. By following international guidelines, the UAE ensures that its nuclear initiatives remain safe, responsible, and fully transparent.
UAE As A Model For Other Nations
Ambassador Al Kaabi emphasized that the UAE’s nuclear program is now a model for other countries. Many nations look to the UAE as an example of how to develop nuclear energy responsibly. The UAE has demonstrated that a country can safely use nuclear technology for peaceful purposes while meeting the highest international standards. This gives the UAE a strong voice in global discussions on energy and sustainable development.
Preparing For Advanced Nuclear Technology
Looking to the future, the UAE is exploring advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs). These reactors are smaller, more flexible, and often more cost-effective than traditional nuclear reactors. They can provide energy solutions for various industries and are a key part of the UAE’s plan to reduce carbon emissions and support clean energy goals.
Ambassador Al Kaabi highlighted that advanced nuclear technology can help accelerate decarbonisation and integrate nuclear energy into multiple sectors beyond electricity. This forward-looking approach shows the UAE’s commitment to innovation in energy and environmental sustainability.
Commitment To Peaceful Nuclear Energy
The UAE continues to show a strong commitment to peaceful nuclear energy. Ambassador Al Kaabi stressed that the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant is a cornerstone of the UAE’s energy system. The plant, the first in the Arab world, has already helped reduce carbon emissions significantly and provides reliable, clean electricity to homes, businesses, and industries.
The UAE’s focus on nuclear safety, security, and advanced technologies demonstrates its dedication to responsible energy development. These efforts are aligned with the country’s vision for a sustainable and low-carbon future.
Bilateral Meetings And Global Cooperation
During the conference, the UAE delegation will hold several bilateral meetings with international partners. These discussions will focus on nuclear policy, regulation, technical cooperation, and industry development. By engaging directly with other nations, the UAE can share its experiences, learn from international best practices, and strengthen global partnerships in nuclear energy.
Signing Of Safety And Cooperation Agreements
FANR plans to sign multiple agreements with international regulators covering areas such as nuclear research, development, safety, and radiation protection. These agreements aim to enhance international collaboration and ensure that the UAE continues to maintain the highest safety standards in its nuclear operations.
Research and development cooperation will support the UAE in adopting new nuclear technologies. At the same time, safety and radiation protection agreements will safeguard workers, the public, and the environment.
Participation In Senior Safety Regulators’ Meeting
The UAE will take part in the Senior Safety and Security Regulators’ Meeting, where nuclear regulators from around the world share their knowledge and experience. The UAE delegation will highlight the importance of strong regulatory competence, flexible systems, and sustainable frameworks. These discussions aim to improve global nuclear safety and security while supporting responsible energy development.
Contribution To Non-Proliferation Efforts
The UAE also contributes to global nuclear non-proliferation. It will present its Safeguards Support Programme at a session called “Member State Support Programmes: Enhancing The Effectiveness Of Safeguards Through Partnership.” This program helps the IAEA monitor nuclear activities and ensures that nuclear materials are used only for peaceful purposes. The UAE’s participation shows its commitment to international security and peaceful nuclear energy.
Knowledge Sharing At Regulatory Cooperation Forum
The UAE will join the Regulatory Cooperation Forum to share its regulatory expertise with international partners. By presenting lessons from the Barakah project and FANR’s regulatory systems, the UAE contributes to strengthening global nuclear safety and regulatory practices. These knowledge-sharing efforts help other countries develop safe and reliable nuclear programs.
UAE’s Role In Global Nuclear Future
The UAE’s participation in the IAEA General Conference highlights its responsible role in the international nuclear community. From the success of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant to future plans for advanced reactors, the UAE continues to lead in the peaceful and safe use of nuclear energy. Its collaboration with the IAEA and global partners reflects a commitment to peace, sustainable development, and energy security worldwide.
Peaceful Nuclear Energy, UAE Nuclear Innovation, Barakah Power Plant
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