Addis Ababa, September 17, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia is participating in the 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), underway in Vienna with representatives of 181 member states deliberating on nuclear safety and security, technological applications and the peaceful uses of nuclear science.
The annual General Conference serves as the IAEA’s principal policymaking forum, bringing together member states to review the Agency’s activities, address key issues in the nuclear field and set priorities for its work.
Since the IAEA was established in 1957, the conference has provided a global platform for advancing the peaceful application of nuclear technology in areas including energy production, cancer care, food security, water management, nuclear safety and security, and safeguards.
Decisions adopted at the conference help shape the Agency’s programme of work for the year ahead and align its activities with emerging global needs and development priorities.
Opening the conference, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi highlighted the Agency’s achievements over the past year and their positive impacts, emphasizing the growing role of nuclear science and technology in addressing development and humanitarian challenges.
The conference also features a scientific forum focused on expanding access to cancer treatment services, alongside side events and exhibitions showcasing advances and practical applications of nuclear science and technology.
Delegates are also deliberating on measures to strengthen nuclear safety and security and expand the peaceful application of nuclear technology.
The agenda includes consideration of the IAEA’s 2025 Annual Report, an update to the Agency’s 2027 budget, financial reports and the election of members to the IAEA Board of Governors.
Ambassador Haileselassie Subba, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Permanent Mission in Geneva, and Second Secretary Betelhem Mekonnen are leading the Ethiopian delegation at the high-level conference.
The 70th General Conference is taking place as countries continue to examine the contribution of nuclear science and technology to global priorities, including energy, health, food security, environmental management and sustainable development.