Syria Strengthens Technical Cooperation with IAEA
The head of the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission, Mudar Al-Akla, has stated that Syria’s participation in the 70th session of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference marks a significant milestone in technical cooperation between Damascus and the organization. This initiative is designed to expand the transfer of peaceful nuclear technology for application in various service and development sectors that directly impact the lives of citizens.
In a press statement, Al-Akla announced the signing of the Country Programme Framework (CPF 2026–2031) with the IAEA. He explained that this agreement will provide new momentum for joint cooperation by focusing on the direct transfer of nuclear technology to seven critical sectors: health and nutrition; food and agriculture; water and environmental management; energy planning; industrial applications; nuclear and radiation safety; and nuclear knowledge management.
Al-Akla noted that the roadmap signed with the agency will contribute tangibly to translating the removal of the non-compliance clause regarding Syria into concrete development projects. These efforts are aimed at advancing infrastructure and service sectors. He emphasized that these steps reflect Syria’s restored standing in the field of peaceful nuclear sciences, which serves as a cornerstone for sustainable development in countries worldwide.
As part of efforts to enhance regional cooperation, Syria has officially joined the framework document for establishing the Asia-Pacific Research Reactor Network (AsPaRRNet), coinciding with the participation of representatives from 12 countries in Vienna. This network provides a regional platform that enables member states to exchange expertise and knowledge and develop joint scientific research. Furthermore, the network aims to strengthen safety and security standards in research reactors, including the Syrian Miniature Neutron Source Reactor (MNSR), while improving operational efficiency and expanding the scope of its products and services.
The Country Programme Framework agreement, signed on September 16 in Vienna, serves as the primary reference for medium-term planning for technical and development cooperation between Syria and the IAEA. The document clearly defines the national priority areas to which technical cooperation resources will be directed, ensuring that the transfer of nuclear technology remains aligned with Syria’s national development goals over the next six years.
