UAE Strengthens Global Nuclear Security At IAEA Conference In Vienna

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is participating in the fourth edition of the International Conference on Nuclear Security: Shaping the Future. Organised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the event is taking place from 20th to 24th May at its headquarters in Vienna, Austria. The conference follows resolution GC(66)/RES/7 adopted at the 66th General Conference in September 2022.

The conference aims to raise awareness about nuclear security topics to maintain and strengthen national nuclear security regimes for nuclear and other radioactive materials. It seeks to share nuclear security experiences, achievements, and current trends among member states. The event serves as a global platform for ministers, policymakers, senior officials, and nuclear security experts to discuss the future of nuclear security worldwide.

The UAE delegation is led by Ambassador Hamad Al Kaabi, UAE Permanent Representative to the IAEA. The delegation includes various national stakeholders such as the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), National Guard Command, National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority, Abu Dhabi Police, Dubai Police, Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, The Emergencies, Crisis and Disasters Management Centre - Abu Dhabi, and Nawah Energy Company.

Ambassador Al Kaabi delivered the UAE National Statement, emphasising the strong relationship between the IAEA and the UAE. He highlighted that this partnership has significantly supported the UAE in developing a peaceful nuclear programme that meets high standards in nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation.

"The UAE Peaceful Nuclear Programme has become a role model for being built and operated with excellence, adhering to the highest standards of safety, security, and safeguards. Such a milestone reflects the unwavering government commitment in the UAE," said Ambassador Al Kaabi.

Over five days, the conference will address various themes including policy, law and regulations for nuclear security; technology and infrastructure for nuclear security prevention; detection and response; as well as capacity building. FANR will present four technical papers highlighting the UAE’s experience in implementing nuclear security measures during Expo 2020 Dubai and COP28.

The papers will also cover the evaluation of Small Modular Reactors' implications on nuclear security; challenges and benefits of technologies used for nuclear power plants; and compliance assurance for safe and secure transport of radioactive material. Additionally, a poster related to the regulatory programme for non-nuclear facilities will be presented.

Side Events and Bilateral Meetings

The UAE delegation will participate in two side events. The first event titled "Nuclear Facilities in Times of Crisis" will highlight recommendations for improving the resilience of nuclear facilities amid growing risks and climate change impacts. The second event "Educating the next generation of nuclear security professionals" will showcase capacity-building needs at Barakah Nuclear Power Plant.

Moreover, the delegation will hold several bilateral meetings with international stakeholders and other member states to discuss cooperation opportunities and exchange views on various aspects related to nuclear security.

Future Regulatory Frameworks

FANR will chair a technical meeting titled "Regulations for the Future: Adapting and Implementing Regulatory Frameworks for Materials and Facilities." During this session, IAEA Member States will present their efforts to prepare for future regulatory needs in terms of energy security while maintaining nuclear material security.

With inputs from WAM