IAEA Director General Commends UAE’s Peaceful Nuclear Energy Programme, Emphasizes Strengthening Nuclear Safety and Security
Grossi’s Visit Highlights UAE’s Nuclear Achievements
Abu Dhabi: Rafael Mariano Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), praised the United Arab Emirates for its integrated peaceful nuclear energy programme during an official visit. This programme, he noted, adheres to the highest standards of safety, transparency, and international cooperation. Grossi emphasized the necessity of ongoing collaboration to bolster nuclear safety and security while supporting the peaceful applications of nuclear energy.
The visit included a tour of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, where Grossi was accompanied by Hamad Al Kaabi, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Management of the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), along with other representatives from the Authority.
Focus on Safety and Security
During his tour, Grossi inspected various facilities within the plant, including advanced simulator training systems, and engaged with Emirati engineers and specialists. The visit served as a platform to assess the UAE’s national initiatives aimed at enhancing the culture of nuclear safety and security, developing local capabilities, and adhering to international best practices across the nuclear energy sector.
Grossi commended the UAE for its significant advancements in establishing a peaceful nuclear energy programme that aligns with international safety and security standards. He underscored the importance of maintaining such cooperation and sharing expertise to facilitate the safe and responsible development of nuclear energy globally.
Nuclear Energy’s Role in Energy Security
Grossi also highlighted the critical role of nuclear energy in bolstering energy security and addressing the rising demand for electricity, particularly in light of increased consumption from heavy industries, data centres, and artificial intelligence applications. He stated that nuclear energy facilities are foundational to a sustainable energy system that fosters societal progress and prosperity.
He expressed grave concern over any threats or attacks targeting these facilities, citing the potential implications for nuclear safety and security as well as the global economy. Grossi asserted that it is crucial for such facilities to remain protected and insulated from conflict, in accordance with relevant international principles, laws, and standards.
Addressing Regional Security Concerns
Grossi characterized an attack on the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant as a serious violation of international laws and norms, posing a direct threat to regional security and stability, as well as to the safety of critical civilian infrastructure. He remarked that targeting nuclear facilities represents a dangerous escalation that jeopardizes both regional and international security and public safety. He called for a firm international response to reject such irresponsible actions.
He reiterated the importance of sustained international efforts to uphold the highest safety and security standards across the nuclear energy sector and to enhance cooperation among nations and international organizations. This cooperation is essential for ensuring the safe, secure, and responsible use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
Strengthening UAE-IAEA Cooperation
Hamad Al Kaabi emphasized the longstanding and close cooperation between the UAE and the IAEA, which has enabled the country to develop a globally recognized model for new nuclear energy projects. He noted that Grossi’s visit to the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant reflects the strength of the UAE’s strategic partnership with the IAEA and their shared commitment to advancing the peaceful and safe use of nuclear technology.
Al Kaabi highlighted the importance of continued coordination across all areas of nuclear energy to ensure that the sector contributes to national development objectives. During the visit, the UAE reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the IAEA’s Seven Indispensable Pillars for ensuring nuclear safety and security, established in 2022 to protect nuclear facilities.
The UAE has made ongoing efforts to maintain the highest levels of nuclear safety, security, and emergency preparedness through a robust regulatory framework, the adoption of international standards, and close cooperation with the IAEA and the global community.
A Legacy of Collaboration
The cooperation between the UAE and the IAEA dates back to 1976 and was further strengthened in 2008 when the UAE launched its policy for developing a peaceful nuclear energy programme. This policy is grounded in the principles of safety, security, and transparency, evolving into the UAE Country Programme Framework, which was signed with the IAEA in 2021 and extends until 2027. This framework serves as a key reference for planning and technical cooperation, focusing on technology development and collaboration in support of sustainable development goals.
Through its peaceful nuclear energy programme, the UAE continues to enhance energy security and advance sustainable development goals. The Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant provides a reliable source of clean electricity, supporting sustainable economic growth, industrialization, and the transition to a knowledge-based economy.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
Explore the latest digital editions of FAME Delivered in the Magazine section.
Published on 2026-06-03 00:24:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk