Amid Russia’s war against Ukraine and the successive attacks on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Romanian Foreign Affairs Minister Luminita Odobescu emphasized the crucial role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in ensuring compliance with nuclear safety standards and in preventing an accident at the Ukrainian nuclear power plants, the Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

In a meeting with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, who is currently visiting Romania, Minister Odobescu emphasized the importance of the role of the atomic watchdog in the use of nuclear technologies for peaceful purposes, under safe and secure conditions. In this line, Luminita Odobescu evoked the significance of the March 21 Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels.

At the same time, the Romanian official referred to IAEA’s constant and substantial support for efforts to promote and strengthen the Romanian nuclear program.

The IAEA Director General emphasized the international profile of Romania and its internationally recognized, responsible nuclear policy. He also highlighted Romania’s notable investments in the development of its nuclear program, including the implementation of new nuclear energy technologies aimed at the installation of small modular reactors (SMRs). The IAEA top official expressed thanks for Romania’s contribution, including under the Technical Cooperation Program, the Foreign Ministry said.

The two officials also discussed concrete ways for Romania to intensify its cooperation with IAEA.

AGERPRES