Serbia and IAEA strengthen cooperation on nuclear energy development

The meeting between Serbian Minister of Energy Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic and IAEA Deputy Director General Hua Liu highlights a significant step in Serbia’s development of its nuclear energy infrastructure. The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation to foster the peaceful use of nuclear technology, with an emphasis on building a strong knowledge base, developing skilled personnel, and expanding Serbia’s capacity in the nuclear energy sector.

Key points from the meeting include:

1. Development of human and technical resources: Serbia aims to build a qualified workforce in nuclear energy and create a knowledge base to support the peaceful application of nuclear technologies. This involves collaboration with the IAEA to boost Serbia’s technical and institutional capabilities.
2. Broad application of nuclear energy: Djedovic Handanovic emphasized that nuclear energy could be used across multiple sectors, including electricity generation, healthcare (especially in medical applications), agriculture, and environmental protection. The IAEA is offering support in these areas, signaling a broad, integrated approach to nuclear technology.
3. Energy Law amendments: A key development mentioned is the planned amendment to Serbia’s Energy Law, which would lift the moratorium on the construction of nuclear power plants in the country. The Serbian government expects the amendments to be presented to Parliament by the end of 2024.
4. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU): The minister referenced the MoU signed in July between over 20 Serbian institutions, including ministries, universities, research centers, and energy companies. This agreement is pivotal for Serbia’s long-term nuclear strategy, strengthening ties between the government and the relevant stakeholders in the nuclear energy sector.
5. IAEA support: Hua Liu praised Serbia’s serious and determined approach to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, emphasizing the IAEA’s readiness to provide the necessary support, both in terms of knowledge and resources, to assist the country’s ambitions.

The meeting underscores Serbia’s commitment to advancing its nuclear energy capabilities while ensuring that the development is peaceful and responsible. By aligning itself with the IAEA’s expertise, Serbia is positioning itself to become a more significant player in nuclear energy in the region, with potential benefits for its energy security, economy, and technological development.