Ethiopia committed to responsible and transparent nuclear dev’t — Deputy PM

Addis Ababa, December 9, 2025 (FMC) — Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Truneh said Tuesday that Ethiopia will implement its nuclear program in full compliance with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards, emphasizing the country’s commitment to responsible and transparent nuclear development.

Temesgen made the remarks during substantive discussions with Dr. Mikhail Chudakov, Deputy Director-General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Energy at the IAEA.

The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between Ethiopia and the Agency to ensure the peaceful application of nuclear technology across multiple sectors.

The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted that nuclear energy will support clean power generation, healthcare, agriculture, industry, and scientific research, reinforcing Ethiopia’s strategy to leverage technology for sustainable development.

He also reaffirmed the country’s dedication to adhering to all international safety and regulatory standards. “Ethiopia’s nuclear pathway is anchored in responsibility, transparency, and partnership, aimed at securing a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous future,” Temesgen said.

For his part, Dr. Chudakov assured Ethiopia of the IAEA’s continued technical support, noting that the Agency will provide guidance and capacity-building assistance at every stage to help the country realize the strategic benefits of nuclear technology.

Dr. Chudakov is in Addis Ababa for the high-level event marking the launch of the Ethiopian Nuclear Power Programme and the operational start of the Ethiopian Nuclear Energy Commission (ENEC). The IAEA official is in the East African country to strengthen technical cooperation and provide guidance as Ethiopia advances its nuclear agenda.

The high-level event brought together senior government officials and international partners, underscoring Ethiopia’s commitment to harness nuclear energy for energy security, industrial transformation, and broader socio-economic development.

In a video message delivered during the event, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi emphasized Ethiopia’s peaceful nuclear ambitions, the socio-economic benefits of nuclear power, and the Agency’s commitment to support the country through capacity-building, institutional readiness, and adherence to international safety standards.