IAEA on nuclear emergency preparedness, response kicks off in Saudi Arabia

The International Conference on Nuclear and Radiological Emergencies kicked off here on Monday, focusing on enhancing emergency preparedness and response.



Organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in cooperation with Saudi Arabia's Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission (NRRC), the four-day event gathers more than 450 participants from over 100 countries and four international organizations, according to an IAEA statement.



Experts, emergency responders, regulators and technical specialists will share experiences, present new research and discuss practical measures to strengthen global nuclear and radiological emergency preparedness and response.



"Nuclear energy depends on trust, and this trust is earned through robust, science-based emergency preparedness and response. Nuclear safety, security and emergency preparedness must come first, and must be credible and transparent," Rafael Grossi, IAEA director general, said in a video message.



"Through the integration of emerging technologies, the exchange of practical experience, and deeper collaboration with the IAEA and our international partners, we collectively enhance global resilience in nuclear and radiological emergency preparedness and response," said Khalid Aleissa, chief executive officer of the NRRC and president of the conference.