UAE and China Enhance Collaboration in Nuclear Regulatory Frameworks
High-level discussions focused on nuclear safety, non-proliferation, and technological advancements in Abu Dhabi.
ABU DHABI: The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) of the United Arab Emirates hosted a high-level delegation from China led by Dong Baotong, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment and Administrator of the National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA).
This visit, which took place at FANR's headquarters in Abu Dhabi, aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in various aspects of nuclear regulation.
The meeting featured attendees including Abdulla Nasser Al Suwaidi, Chairman of FANR’s Board of Management, who engaged with Chinese officials on topics such as knowledge exchange, research and development, and capacity building in nuclear safety and security.
Another focal point was nuclear non-proliferation, alongside discussions regarding the regulatory frameworks needed for advanced nuclear technologies.
This gathering is part of the ongoing partnership between China’s NNSA and the UAE’s FANR, which was formalized by a three-year action plan signed in November 2024. This action plan delineates a structure for cooperation across numerous sectors related to nuclear regulation.
Furthermore, a Memorandum of Understanding established in 2018 has laid the groundwork for collaborative efforts in nuclear safety, non-proliferation, and capacity building initiatives.
During the visit, FANR officials provided insights into their regulatory oversight of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, emphasizing the impact and efficiency of the facility in bolstering the UAE’s energy landscape.
In return, members of the Chinese delegation shared updates regarding advancements and developments within China’s nuclear energy programmes.
The delegation’s itinerary included a tour of FANR’s Emergency Operations Centre, where they received a comprehensive introduction to the UAE's nuclear emergency preparedness and response systems.
This highlighted the country’s initiatives aimed at ensuring both public safety and environmental protection in the context of nuclear energy operations.