Jordan’s National Centre for Nuclear and Radiological Security Designated as IAEA Centre

The four-year agreement, signed during the IAEA’s International Conference on Nuclear Security: Shaping the Future, marks a significant step in strengthening nuclear security in the Middle East.

The National Centre for Nuclear and Radiological Security (NCNRS) in Jordan has been designated as a collaborating centre for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in the area of nuclear security detection and response. This landmark designation aims to bolster global nuclear security efforts through capacity building and collaborative research.

Key Objectives and Areas of Engagement

Development of Training Materials: NCNRS will focus on creating comprehensive training materials to enhance nuclear security education.

Hosting Workshops and Technical Visits: The centre will host various workshops and technical visits, providing practical training and knowledge sharing.

Coordinated Research Activities: NCNRS will engage in collaborative research projects to advance nuclear security technologies and methodologies.

Statements from Key Officials

Lydie Evrard, IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security, highlighted the importance of this collaboration:

"The designation of the National Centre for Nuclear and Radiological Security (NCNRS) as an IAEA collaborating centre builds on its well-recognized expertise and state-of-the-art facilities in nuclear security detection and response capacity building. Under this agreement, the NCNRS will further engage with the IAEA to contribute to the Agency's efforts to support countries to enhance their detection and response capabilities for nuclear security."

Zeyad Alsaaydeh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of NCNRS, emphasized Jordan's commitment to nuclear security:

"Jordan has been constantly working to strengthen the national nuclear security architecture to combat nuclear smuggling and illicit trafficking of nuclear and other radioactive material, and to respond to nuclear security events. This agreement comes at a time when global cooperation in the radiological and nuclear sector is essential."

Rana Abida, Chargé d'affaires at the Permanent Mission of Jordan in Vienna, added:

"The designation of NCNRS as collaborating centre will support the IAEA's activities and solidify the centre's goals of enhancing coordination between national agencies to secure nuclear and radioactive material, and counter illicit trafficking, and we hope this will benefit nuclear security in the region as well."

Impact and Future Collaboration

The four-year agreement, signed during the IAEA's International Conference on Nuclear Security: Shaping the Future, marks a significant step in strengthening nuclear security in the Middle East. NCNRS becomes the first such centre in the region and the tenth globally. The collaboration is expected to yield several benefits:

Enhancing Detection and Response Capabilities: By leveraging NCNRS's expertise and facilities, countries will be better equipped to detect and respond to nuclear security threats.

Advancing Research and Technology: Joint research projects, such as the 'Facilitation of Safe and Secure Trade Using Nuclear Detection Technology' and 'Advancing Maintenance, Repair, and Calibration of Radiation Detection Equipment', will push the boundaries of current nuclear security technologies.

Building Regional and Global Networks: Participation in international networks like the International Network of Front Line Officers and the International Network for Nuclear Security Training and Support Centres will foster greater cooperation and knowledge exchange.

NCNRS Facilities and Capabilities

NCNRS is equipped with advanced radiation detection training facilities, including radiation portal monitors and hand-held detectors. These state-of-the-art resources will play a crucial role in training personnel and enhancing nuclear security measures globally.

Conclusion

The establishment of NCNRS as an IAEA collaborating centre underscores Jordan's dedication to nuclear security and its commitment to global cooperation. This partnership will not only enhance Jordan's capabilities but also contribute significantly to international efforts in securing nuclear and radioactive materials, ensuring a safer world for all.