VIENNA, Sept 16: Kuwait and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) signed the fourth National Program Framework Agreement for Technical Cooperation on Monday, covering the years 2026 to 2035, marking a new phase in their long-standing partnership in peaceful nuclear applications.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Faisal Al-Humaidan, Director General of the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), and Hua Liu, Deputy Director General of the IAEA and Head of the Technical Cooperation Department, during a formal ceremony held in Vienna.

Following the signing, Dr. Al-Humaidan told KUNA that the strategic cooperation between Kuwait and the IAEA has spanned over a decade and continues to play a key role in supporting sustainable development in the country. He emphasized that the newly signed framework will enable Kuwait to benefit from advanced nuclear technologies to address challenges in food, water, health, and environmental security.

He noted that the national framework plan focuses on capacity building, knowledge transfer, and empowering national competencies, aligning with Kuwait Vision 2035 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking on the sidelines of the 69th IAEA General Conference, Al-Humaidan confirmed that the framework lays out a comprehensive strategy for collaboration in seven key areas:

He stated that this historic agreement reflects Kuwait's strong commitment to utilizing peaceful nuclear science and technology to diversify the economy and enhance the quality of life for both citizens and residents.

Al-Humaidan also acknowledged the efforts of past and present National Liaison Officers with the IAEA, including Dr. Nader Al-Awadhi and Dr. Habiba Saud Al-Munaie, as well as contributions from key national stakeholders such as the Ministries of Health, Electricity and Water, Environment, and Agriculture, the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters, and KISR itself.

He expressed pride in KISR’s recognition by the IAEA as a "Cooperating Center" for marine and coastal pollution assessment since 2019. This designation, he said, strengthens Kuwait's role as a regional hub for environmental monitoring and cancer patient care.

Al-Humaidan also praised the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, particularly the Department of International Organizations and the Permanent Mission in Vienna, for their active support. He extended thanks to Ambassador Talal Al-Fassam and the Kuwaiti embassy staff for facilitating this strategic partnership.

Al-Humaidan affirmed that KISR remains committed to working closely with national and international partners to advance sustainable development under the guidance of His Highness the Amir, His Highness the Crown Prince, and His Highness the Prime Minister.