Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Others Join Key Nuclear Safety Treaties at IAEA

By joining these treaties, Kyrgyzstan signaled its intent to work closely with the global community in managing nuclear risks and ensuring preparedness for potential emergencies.

On the sidelines of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference in Vienna, several countries took significant legal steps to strengthen the global framework for nuclear safety, security, and cooperation. Treaty actions included new accessions by Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, an extension of the ARCAL regional cooperation agreement in Latin America, and Bangladesh's accession to a major nuclear safety convention.

Kyrgyzstan Commits to Nuclear Safety Treaties

The Kyrgyz Republic formally deposited legal instruments of accession to two important nuclear safety conventions:

• The Convention on Assistance in the Case of a Nuclear Accident or Radiological Emergency, and

• The Convention on Early Notification of a Nuclear Accident.

Kyrgyzstan was represented by Meder Asanovich Mashiev, Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision, who underscored the country's commitment to aligning with international standards on nuclear safety and emergency response.

By joining these treaties, Kyrgyzstan signaled its intent to work closely with the global community in managing nuclear risks and ensuring preparedness for potential emergencies.

Uzbekistan Recognized for Treaty Progress

The IAEA also recognized Uzbekistan for its recent treaty actions. On 14 April 2025, Uzbekistan acceded to both the Convention on Early Notification of a Nuclear Accident and the Convention on Nuclear Safety. On 30 July 2025, it further acceded to the Convention on Assistance in the Case of a Nuclear Accident or Radiological Emergency.

At the Treaty Event, Uzbekistan was represented by Abduvaqqos Rafiqov, Chairman of the Committee for Industrial, Radiation and Nuclear Safety. These accessions further strengthen Uzbekistan's nuclear governance framework and signal its readiness to align with global nuclear safety norms.

ARCAL Extension Strengthened by Six Nations

In another major development, six Latin American and Caribbean countries deposited instruments of acceptance to extend the Co-operation Agreement for the Promotion of Nuclear Science and Technology in Latin America and the Caribbean (ARCAL).

The six countries included:

• Chile, represented by Resident Representative Alex Wetzig

• Colombia, represented by Chargé d'Affaires Alonso Lozada

• Ecuador, represented by Deputy Head of Mission Ivan Garces Burbano

• Paraguay, represented by Resident Representative Juan Francisco Facetti

• Peru, represented by Minister of Agricultural Development and Irrigation Angel Manero Campos

• Venezuela, represented by Vice Minister of Science and Technology Alberto Quintero

ARCAL has long served as a cornerstone for regional cooperation, fostering projects in health, agriculture, industry, and environmental protection using nuclear science and technology. Its extension reflects continued solidarity and commitment to joint development goals.

Bangladesh Accedes to Joint Convention

Separately, Bangladesh also took an important step by depositing an instrument of accession to the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management.

Bangladesh was represented by Toufique Hasan, Resident Representative, who highlighted the country's dedication to strengthening nuclear waste management practices as its energy sector evolves.

A Push Toward Universalization of Nuclear Treaties

IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi praised the series of treaty actions, noting: "Joining these treaties is an important step towards their universalization and signals to the international community a State's commitment to a strong legal framework aimed at ensuring the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear technology."

Grossi emphasized that widespread adherence to these conventions bolsters the resilience of the international nuclear safety regime, ensuring that lessons are shared, emergencies are managed collectively, and nuclear technology continues to be used safely and peacefully.

A Broader Commitment to Nuclear Safety

Together, these actions underscore the continued global effort to universalize nuclear safety agreements. From Central Asia to South Asia, and across Latin America, states are demonstrating their willingness to cooperate internationally on emergency preparedness, waste management, and the peaceful application of nuclear technologies.