Djedović Handanović and Liu on Serbia's Cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency

"We considered options for continued cooperation with the IAEA, particularly in building a knowledge base, strengthening capacities, and developing a qualified workforce in Serbia in the field of nuclear energy. This is based on the Memorandum of Understanding in the field of application of nuclear energy development, signed in July with over 20 institutions, including ministries, universities, scientific institutes, and energy companies. The agency prepared to support us with resources and expertise in various areas of nuclear energy application - such as electricity generation, medicine, agriculture, and environmental protection," said the Minister.

Djedović Handanović stated that the Government of the Republic of Serbia adopted the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan until 2030, with projections until 2050. In one of the scenarios, the plan considers the introduction of nuclear energy into the national energy mix as a source of base-load energy after 2040.

"I expect that the amendments to the Law on Energy will be before parliament by the end of the year, and if adopted, they will lift the moratorium on the construction of nuclear facilities in our country. By mid-next year, we will complete a preliminary technical study on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, which should indicate what is most suitable for our conditions. This study will be the foundation on which we continue further analysis and preparatory studies. It is important for us to understand the costs and timelines involved, so we will continue deepening our cooperation with the IAEA. In the meantime, we must develop a platform in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Technological Development. Through this platform, and with the support of the IAEA, we will strengthen personnel capacities in all institutions, regulatory bodies, and energy companies, as well as encourage educational and scientific institutions to continue to improve their programs and strengthen capacities related to the peaceful application of nuclear energy," said the Minister.    

Hua Liu, Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, stated that Serbia is seriously committed to the peaceful application of nuclear energy.

"We are very pleased to be here, as Serbia has a nuclear tradition and clear intentions for the future regarding nuclear energy, which you, as a country, have communicated to the international community. We are ready and willing to support you along this path. Through cooperation, you can benefit from our expertise, resources, and knowledge in fields such as medicine, agriculture, food industry, environmental protection, as well as energy," said Liu.

The meeting was attended by Slađan Velinov, the national coordinator for the International Atomic Energy Agency, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Environmental Protection, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation.