Experts and officials in the nuclear energy sector have lauded the UAE's Peaceful Nuclear Energy Programme as a global model for nations looking to launch new and sophisticated nuclear energy initiatives to meet their future energy needs.

Their remarks came during a session held on the sidelines of the International Ministerial Conference - Nuclear Power in the 21st Century, which concluded today. The conference was organised by the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, in cooperation with the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency, and the UAE Ministry of Energy and Industry.

The session, entitled, 'The UAE’s Journey Towards Peaceful Nuclear Energy', included discussions on the history of the peaceful nuclear energy sector in the UAE, and the launch of the Peaceful Nuclear Energy Programme ten years ago with the aim of achieving the nation's future growth and prosperity.

The meeting reviewed the partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency in addition to the establishment of national bodies and institutions within the sector. The government entities include the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation, FANR, as the regulatory body responsible for regulating the nuclear energy sector in the UAE, and the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation, ENEC, which is developing the first peaceful nuclear power plants in the country, contributing to the diversification of energy sources in the country.

Participants emphasised the importance of cooperating with international experts in supporting the development of the UAE's peaceful nuclear programme through the exchange of best practices, knowledge and expertise to ensure the sustainability of the project and its commitment to the highest international standards.

The conference brought together more than 700 experts and leaders of the peaceful nuclear energy sector from around the world to discuss the latest trends in the industry as well as propose and present new strategies to meet the challenges faced by stakeholders around the world.