Workshop begins to review Kuwait’s nuclear security plan

Today, the workshop to review the integrated national plan for the sustainability of nuclear security in Kuwait commenced. The event will run for four days and is attended by Dr. Munther Al-Hasawi, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Affairs.
Organized jointly by the Ministry of Health, through the Radiation Protection Department, and the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency, the workshop also features participation from members of government agencies on the Radiation Emergency Committee and the Civil Defense Committee, focusing on preparedness, readiness, and joint government response implementation.
The meeting will also be attended by representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Defense, National Guard, General Fire Force, and the General Administration of Customs, along with the GCC Emergency Management Center and experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Nader Al-Awadhi, the National Liaison Officer for the International Atomic Energy Agency, commended the efforts of various state agencies in strengthening nuclear security.
Al-Awadhi emphasized the importance of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency, highlighting its significant contributions to advancing progress in the health, industrial, agricultural, and environmental sectors.
Furthermore, Al-Awadhi also highlighted Kuwait’s commitment to enhancing its national nuclear security system, noting the country’s steps in signing relevant international agreements over the years. Additionally, he pointed out the establishment of the Radiation Protection Department in 1977, a nuclear and radiation regulatory body, to ensure the implementation of international standards.
Al-Awadhi also explained that Kuwait is one of the first countries in the region to develop an integrated plan to support nuclear security, marking a strategic step to strengthen the national security system by enhancing both institutional and human capabilities. He stressed that this cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency reflects Kuwait’s commitment to safety and sustainability in nuclear energy and aligns with the state’s dedication to achieving development goals in accordance with international standards.
For his part, Dr. Nasser Al-Juwaisri, Director of the Radiation Protection Department, stated that since Kuwait joined the International Atomic Energy Agency in 1964, the country has actively participated in various programs with the Agency and regional nations, spanning medical, industrial, and research fields.
Importantly, Kuwait has also focused on developing infrastructure and legislation to ensure nuclear safety and protect the environment and public from radioactive contamination. The country has signed several international agreements to promote the peaceful use of radioactive sources and has worked closely with the Agency’s experts to enhance nuclear security procedures.
As part of the Nuclear Security Support Program, Kuwait completed a questionnaire to identify key stakeholders, assess their capabilities and legal frameworks, and ensure effective coordination between institutions. This initiative aims to protect the public from potential nuclear threats while strengthening the country’s commitment to global nuclear security standards.
Source: Al Rai