IAEA Chief Labels Morocco as Provider of Expertise, Scientific Solidarity
Morocco: A Beacon of Nuclear Expertise in Africa
IAEA Director General hails Moroccan leadership in peaceful applications of nuclear technology.
Morocco has earned international recognition as a powerhouse of scientific expertise and solidarity, particularly in the field of nuclear energy. Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), praised Morocco's contributions during an interview on the occasion of the 26th Throne Day celebrations. He attributed this success to the numerous reforms spearheaded by King Mohammed VI, a staunch advocate for South-South cooperation.
"A Center of Excellence" Supporting African Nations
Grossi lauded Morocco's active role within the IAEA, highlighting its exemplary work in promoting peaceful nuclear applications both domestically and across Africa.
“Morocco is a center of excellence in Africa and a valuable cooperation channel for countries with fewer resources,” he stated, emphasizing the technical and institutional support the Kingdom provides to other African member states.
The IAEA Director General further recognized Morocco as "a reliable partner" and "a significant player" within the Agency's governing bodies. He specifically pointed to Morocco's successful presidency of the General Conference in 2020, where it effectively facilitated compromise among diverse nations.
A Hub for Regional Integration and Training
Morocco stands out for its “very significant” technical expertise in various nuclear applications, including health, environment, agriculture, and potentially energy. Grossi also praised Morocco's pioneering role as a regional hub for training and skills transfer, emphasizing the presence of numerous African trainees and experts at the National Center for Energy, Sciences and Nuclear Techniques (CNESTEN).
“Morocco combines our capacities with its own, in a spirit of cooperation that perfectly reflects its Pan-African tradition of solidarity,” Grossi said, advocating against isolated projects and commending Morocco's efforts as a platform for regional integration.
Concrete Achievements Drive Sustainable Development
The IAEA chief highlighted Morocco’s tangible accomplishments within the framework of technical cooperation, including advancements in radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, water management, and climate-adapted agriculture. He also cited collaborations in isotopic hydrology, a nuclear technique that optimizes water use in agriculture and overall water management.
Furthermore, Grossi recognized Morocco's active participation in two flagship IAEA programs: "Rays of Hope" for cancer treatment and "Atoms for Food" for developing drought-resistant crops.
Morocco’s commitment to sustainable development aligns perfectly with the IAEA's goals. Grossi expressed deep appreciation for King Mohammed VI's leadership in emphasizing harmonious and sustainable development, praising the clear vision for progress evident in health, agriculture, and scientific reforms.