The Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA) has announced the resumption of cooperation with Uzbekistan after nearly a two-decade hiatus. The joint project aims to establish a modern state regulatory system, train specialists, and exchange experience ahead of the country's nuclear energy program implementation.
The project is being carried out jointly with the Committee for Industrial, Radiation and Nuclear Safety under the Cabinet of Ministers and is dedicated to strengthening the national regulatory system in the nuclear field.
One of the key goals of the project is to create an independent and effective regulatory body in Uzbekistan capable of overseeing the development of nuclear energy in accordance with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recommendations and international safety standards.
Cooperation covers key areas including the development of a modern legal and regulatory framework, regulation of construction and operation of nuclear facilities, training of inspectors and technical specialists, improvement of the licensing system, development of emergency preparedness and response, radiation protection of the public and personnel, and safe management of radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel.
The first step was a visit by the Uzbek delegation to Norway, during which specialists learned how the country organizes licensing of nuclear facilities, state supervision, inspections, radiation monitoring, and the nuclear safety system.
During the visit, the Uzbek delegation also toured the Kjeller nuclear research center. Specialists familiarized themselves with the research reactor's operation, radiation monitoring infrastructure, and reactor decommissioning projects. Norway's experience in dismantling nuclear facilities and long-term management of radioactive materials was of particular interest.
DSA emphasized that the cooperation is long-term and includes training activities, expert consultations, technical support, and the introduction of best international practices as Uzbekistan's nuclear program develops.
Earlier, the IAEA confirmed its readiness to assist Uzbekistan in developing nuclear medicine and introducing modern medical technologies into the industry.
Source: podrobno.uz