Morocco backs nuclear safety cooperation at IAEA

Morocco has renewed its commitment to advancing nuclear and radiological safety cooperation in developing countries, according to the Moroccan government-friendly North Africa Post and agencies on March 4th.

This was following the Kingdom’s attendance at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors meeting in Vienna.

Morocco’s ambassador to international organisations in Vienna, Azzeddine Farhane, addressed the IAEA Board of Governors meeting, where he stressed the need to strengthen international safety standards to support the peaceful use of nuclear technologies around the world.

Farhane welcomed the report presented by the IAEA Director General, Rafael Mariano Grossi, on the IAEA’s priorities for 2026 and reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to international safety standards.

He also expressed appreciation for the IAEA’s efforts to strengthen safety measures to protect people and the environment from the risks associated with nuclear and radiological activities, such as radiation poisoning, which can lead to an increased risk of developing cancer.

These efforts also include the management, transport, and response to emergencies involving radioactive materials; if not managed properly, radiation can contaminate soil and destroy ecosystems.

Morocco has implemented reforms to update its regulatory framework to align its national laws with international safety guidelines, Farhane said.

They have hosted two peer review missions conducted by the IAEA to review the Kingdom’s emergency preparedness and regulatory infrastructure, Moroccan officials stated.

Morocco has expressed its willingness to share its experience with other developing countries, especially those in Africa, to support the development of safety cooperation in the region.

In June 2025, Morocco was granted the highest level of nuclear trust by the IAEA, marking a significant milestone in nuclear oversight.

The talks in Vienna underscore Morocco’s increased involvement in international nuclear governance and its drive to harmonise national regulatory practices with international safety standards.

It is emphasised that continued collaboration with the IAEA is key to enhancing nuclear and radiological safety regimes in developing regions, such as African countries seeking to strengthen their national safety systems.

North Africa Post and agencies, Maghrebi.org