IAEA Director General's Visit to Singapore Highlights Nuclear Energy Collaboration

Last week, Rafael Mariano Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), traveled to Singapore to emphasize support for the nation and the broader Southeast Asian region as interest in nuclear power and technology continues to rise. During his visit, Mr. Grossi held discussions with notable figures including President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, and the Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science and Technology Tan See Leng. Their discussions predominantly centered around the escalating interest in nuclear energy, the peaceful uses of nuclear technology in sectors like health and food security, and the significance of collaboration among nations.

momentum is building, and ASEAN’s interest in nuclear energy is real and promising.” He highlighted the potential for nuclear energy as a stable and low-carbon option in meeting the region's future energy needs. Conversations with Singapore’s president and prime minister reflected shared goals for a safer and more sustainable future.

The meeting with Minister Tan See Leng offered insights into the nuclear energy perspectives both in East Asia and on a global scale. Mr. Grossi reaffirmed the IAEA's commitment to supporting countries in the safe advancement of nuclear technology, addressing how rapidly improving technologies can enhance development in the sector. He strengthened the IAEA's relationship with Singapore through the signing of an agreement with Grace Fu, the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, to extend their collaboration further.

The Director General also shared plans to support various initiatives, including the establishment of one of Asia’s first proton therapy centers, alongside other projects such as NUTEC Plastics and Atoms4Food. His visit to the National University of Singapore's Nuclear Research and Safety Institute (SNRSI) included delivering the S R Nathan Fellowship Lecture on the global energy landscape and the renewed interest in nuclear energy, during which he valued the engaging questions from the students. Additionally, Mr. Grossi toured the SNRSI and the radiological laboratories of the National Environment Agency.