Addis Ababa, March 10, 2026 (FMC) – The Second World Nuclear Energy Summit opened Tuesday in Paris, France, bringing together government leaders, energy officials, and international delegates to discuss the role of civil nuclear power in strengthening energy security, achieving decarbonization targets, and enhancing economic competitiveness amid global geopolitical tensions.
French President Emmanuel Macron, in his opening address, called for increased public and private investment in nuclear energy, emphasizing its importance for energy independence and decarbonization goals. Macron warned that reliance on fossil fuels leaves countries vulnerable to geopolitical instability and fluctuating prices.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described Europe’s past reduction in nuclear capacity as a “strategic mistake,” citing the region’s heavy dependence on fossil fuel imports amid current international conflicts. She announced a €200 million European Union guarantee to support private investment in innovative nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), which Brussels aims to deploy in the coming decade.
The summit has drawn participation from more than 60 countries, including European and African nations. Bulgarian Prime Minister Andrey Gurov attended alongside other EU officials, highlighting commitments to safe and sustainable nuclear development.
Morocco’s Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch represented his country, signaling Rabat’s interest in engaging in international nuclear energy discussions.
According to reports, the opening session was briefly disrupted when Greenpeace activists confronted President Macron and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi onstage, displaying banners criticizing nuclear power and dependence on imported uranium. Security quickly removed the activists.
Organizers said the two-day summit will continue with plenary discussions, technical sessions, and dialogue aimed at expanding safe and sustainable civil nuclear energy, promoting international cooperation, and exploring investment frameworks for innovative nuclear technologies.