On this occasion, Christer Viktorsson, Director-General of FANR, stated that the conference discussions will focus on the global nuclear energy landscape, addressing issues related to nuclear security, safety, non-proliferation, and guarantees, as well as enhancing international cooperation in this vital sector.
He expressed FANR's eagerness to update its current cooperation framework with its counterparts and regulatory bodies in advanced nations, in light of the Memorandums of Understanding it has signed with more than 20 regulatory bodies worldwide. These agreements focus on areas such as research and development, knowledge exchange, training, and projects.
FANR will participate in several events during the conference, including a session highlighting how the UAE ensures radiation and nuclear safety in the country, in addition to updates on the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, which became fully operational at the beginning of this month.
Viktorsson explained that FANR’s delegation will also meet with representatives of global regulatory bodies to discuss the best practices for establishing strong nuclear safety infrastructures, affirming that the UAE has considerable experience in this area, with many countries looking to its successful peaceful nuclear programme.
Regarding FANR’s responsibilities, he said, “Our current role is to ensure that Nawah Energy Company, the operator of the Barakah plants, adheres to all requirements and obligations stipulated in the Nuclear Law and FANR's various regulations, such as emergency planning, environmental protection, worker safety, security, and non-proliferation, in addition to compliance with the conditions of the licences we have issued.”
Speaking about FANR’s support for the UAE government’s transformational projects, Viktorsson noted ongoing initiatives aimed at supporting government directives. He highlighted FANR's collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Health on projects within the medical field, helping practitioners adopt proper diagnostic methods to reduce patients’ exposure to radiation.
He also mentioned the launch of the National Programme for Qualifying Nuclear and Radiological Emergency Workers (TAHYAA), designed to prepare a nuclear and radiological emergency response team in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior. The programme aims to train 3,000 UAE nationals from emergency response teams between July 2024 and June 2025.
Viktorsson affirmed FANR's active contribution to supporting various sectors in the UAE, including education and advanced technology. He highlighted the launch of the "Emirates Nuclear and Radiation Academy" this year, a free digital learning platform offering modules on various topics within the nuclear and radiological sector.
He noted that the academy is continuously advancing, with specialised courses and the integration of different applications of advanced technologies. He pointed out that young people are highly open to learning new technologies and are ready to engage with the latest innovations. Thus, FANR is providing more training to ensure these technologies are applied in the field of nuclear radiation.
Viktorsson also highlighted FANR’s move towards artificial intelligence technologies, starting with the appointment of a Chief of Artificial Intelligence. This role will oversee the establishment of an AI governance structure, ensure the implementation of AI-related projects, and provide training to staff and departments on these technologies.
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