Morocco, acting as a technological bridge between Europe and Africa, is actively promoting the peaceful use of nuclear technology to support the African continent.
The Kingdom is facilitating the transfer of expertise and advanced capabilities across various sectors, consolidating its know-how and expanding its influence in civilian nuclear energy.
During the ongoing session of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors in Vienna, held from June 9 to 13, Morocco reiterated its commitment to the peaceful, safe, and secure use of nuclear technologies. The nation also emphasized enhancing cooperation with fellow African IAEA member states.
On Monday, June 9, Morocco’s Permanent Representative to the UN and other international organizations in Vienna, Ambassador Azzeddine Farhane, highlighted Morocco’s dedication to sharing its expertise in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental protection. He noted that Morocco, equipped with specialized training centers and robust research infrastructure, has built internationally recognized expertise with IAEA support, as acknowledged in the Agency’s 2024 Annual Report.
The report details several key initiatives, including the first regional meeting in Rabat under the IAEA’s ZODIAC initiative, aimed at bolstering capacity in combating zoonotic infectious diseases. It also mentions the February 2024 meeting of coordinators from the African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training related to Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA), which Rabat hosted, gathering representatives from 37 African member states to share best practices.
Morocco’s commitment extends to holding key international responsibilities in nuclear safety and security. The country currently chairs the Steering Committee of the Global Nuclear Safety and Security Network (GNSSN) and coordinates the North African region within the Forum of Nuclear Regulatory Bodies in Africa (FNRBA).
Looking ahead, Morocco is positioning itself as a major player in civilian nuclear energy, planning to integrate nuclear power into its national energy mix by 2030, leveraging its national nuclear reference center and strategic international partnerships. The IAEA report further indicates that Morocco possesses a critical natural advantage for its nuclear ambitions, holding 70% of the world’s phosphate reserves, from which uranium is extracted.
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