Algeria Reaffirms Commitment to Peaceful Nuclear Energy at IAEA Conference in Vienna

Algeria Reaffirms Commitment to Peaceful Nuclear Energy at IAEA Conference in Vienna

✍️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, September 2025 –  Algeria has once again underscored its principled commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, as it participated with a high-level delegation in the 69th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), held in Vienna from September 15 to 19, 2025. The Algerian delegation was led by Rachedi Menadi, President of the National Authority for Nuclear Safety and Security, who delivered a keynote address during the plenary session.

In his statement, Menadi reiterated Algeria’s unwavering support for the Agency’s mission to promote equitable access to the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology, particularly for developing nations. He highlighted the crucial role of nuclear energy in advancing health, agriculture, water resource management, and environmental protection, reaffirming Algeria’s stance as a responsible actor in the global nuclear framework.

Algeria’s Role in “Rays of Hope” Initiative

Menadi drew attention to Algeria’s active contribution to the IAEA’s flagship initiative, Rays of Hope, designed to expand access to life-saving cancer care. He noted that Algeria has been instrumental in training African students and professionals in nuclear medicine, radiology, and radiotherapy, thereby strengthening Africa’s collective capacity in the field. This, he said, reflects Algeria’s longstanding leadership in empowering the continent through knowledge-sharing and capacity-building.

Addressing this year’s Scientific Forum, themed Atoms for Water, the Algerian delegation emphasized the country’s achievements in tackling water scarcity. Menadi cited the commissioning of five new seawater desalination plants in 2025, in line with the program launched by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, as a concrete demonstration of Algeria’s efforts to ensure sustainable water security through advanced technology.

Menadi praised the robust level of technical cooperation between Algeria and the IAEA, affirming Algeria’s readiness to continue supporting African nations in harnessing nuclear science for peaceful purposes. He emphasized that Algeria’s cooperation with the Agency is not limited to national development but extends to regional solidarity, bolstering Africa’s resilience in vital sectors.

In a poignant intervention, Menadi addressed the humanitarian tragedy unfolding in Gaza. He called upon the IAEA to extend necessary assistance to the State of Palestine and urged member states to support the Arab-sponsored draft resolution on technical cooperation with Palestine. This position, he stressed, is consistent with Algeria’s principled foreign policy and its unwavering defense of just causes.