UAE Participates in International Conference on Nuclear Security

The 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) from 20-24 May at its headquarters in Vienna, Austria.

This event is being held in accordance with the resolution GC(66)/RES/7, adopted at the 66th General Conference in September 2022, which called for the continuation of organising the ICONS every four years.

The conference aims to raise awareness about nuclear security 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 conference serves as a global platform for ministers, policymakers, senior officials, and nuclear security experts to discuss the future of nuclear security worldwide, providing opportunities for exchanging information, sharing best practices, and fostering international cooperation.

The UAE delegation, led by Ambassador Hamad Al Kaabi, UAE Permanent Representative to the IAEA, 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, highlighting the strong relationship between the IAEA and the UAE. He emphasised the robust partnership that has provided significant support over the past decade, aiding the country in developing a peaceful nuclear programme that meets the highest 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, and adhering to the highest standards of safety, security, and safeguards. Such a milestone reflects the unwavering government commitment in the UAE, coupled with the strong cooperation with our national and international partners that made us where we are today,” Ambassador Al Kaabi said.

Bilateral meetings

Over the five days of the conference, various themes will be addressed, 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 to highlight the UAE’s experience in implementing nuclear security measures during Expo 2020 Dubai and COP28, evaluate the implications of Small Modular Reactors on nuclear security, and discuss the challenges and benefits of technologies used for nuclear power plants and compliance assurance for the safe and secure transport of radioactive material. Additionally, a poster will be presented related to the regulatory programme for non-nuclear facilities, which assesses safety, security, and safeguards.

The UAE delegation will also participate in two side events: the first, titled “Nuclear Facilities in Times of Crisis,” will focus on improving the resilience of nuclear facilities amidst growing risks and climate change impacts. The second event, “Educating the Next Generation of Nuclear Security Professionals to Meet Future Global Demands,” will showcase the capacity-building needs of nuclear security at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant and cooperation with educational institutions inside and outside the UAE.

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

Additionally, FANR will chair a technical meeting titled “Regulations for the Future: Adapting and Implementing Regulatory Frameworks for Materials and Facilities,” where IAEA member states will present their efforts to prepare for the future in terms of regulations, addressing the growing needs of the nuclear sector to achieve energy security, mitigate climate change, and maintain the security of nuclear material.