The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and CAF – development bank of Latin America and the Caribbean – today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further strengthen cooperation in the area of nuclear energy throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. The MoU was signed during the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and CAF Executive President Sergio Díaz-Granados.

Both organizations recognize the strategic value of nuclear energy, and the new alliance will promote applications of nuclear technology for environmental protection, energy security and regional decarbonization.

The three-year MoU establishes a comprehensive framework for collaboration in strategic areas, also including water resource management, the strengthening of energy resilience, the promotion of a circular economy, efficient waste management and the development of food systems adapted to various climate conditions. 

“This strategic alliance with the IAEA marks a milestone in our mission to drive sustainable development and strengthen the energy security of Latin America and the Caribbean,” CAF Executive President Díaz-Granados said. “Nuclear energy represents a fundamental alternative to diversify our regional energy matrix and achieve the decarbonization goals we have set. Through this collaboration, we will strengthen technical and institutional capacities, develop robust regulatory frameworks, and promote the safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology for the comprehensive benefit of our member countries. This memorandum consolidates our vision of building a more prosperous, equitable and sustainable region.”

“We are pleased to sign this agreement with CAF to expand the use of the power of the atom in Latin America and the Caribbean,” IAEA Director General Grossi said. “Nuclear energy is an increasingly attractive option for countries seeking to introduce or expand their use of clean, reliable baseload electricity to support development goals.” 

Under the MoU, the IAEA will provide technical assistance to CAF to strengthen its knowledge base and specialized capacities in multiple aspects of nuclear technology, including comprehensive energy planning, development of critical infrastructure, technological innovation and safe management of radioactive waste. 

This MoU represents an important step forward in harnessing the transformative potential of nuclear technology to address the most pressing development challenges, while ensuring the highest international standards of nuclear safety in Latin America and the Caribbean.