Singapore signs new five-year IAEA framework to strengthen nuclear capabilities

Developed by NEA in consultation with the global nuclear watchdog and stakeholders across government agencies and relevant sectors, it identifies “priority areas” where nuclear technology transfer and resources will support national development goals.

Six “priority areas” are listed in the latest framework. They are:

• Nuclear and radiation safety and nuclear security 
• Environment 
• Food safety 
• Human health 
• Energy 
• Industrial applications

NEA said the framework aims to enhance Singapore’s ability to assess new energy technologies, strengthen environmental radiation monitoring, improve food radiochemistry and safety testing, and advance nuclear imaging and cancer therapy.

“The framework augments Singapore’s efforts to build capabilities in nuclear safety as it assesses the potential deployment of nuclear energy and in light of the region’s growing interest in nuclear energy,” NEA said.

It added that the framework builds on previous technical cooperation programmes, helping Singapore leverage nuclear science and technology for national development while contributing to regional capacity-building efforts.

The agreement was signed by Mr Jaya Ratnam, Singapore’s resident representative to the IAEA, and Mr Hua Liu, IAEA deputy director general and head of its department of technical cooperation.