IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi visited Singapore last week to reaffirm support to the country and the wider region, as interest grows in Southeast Asia for nuclear power and technology.??
During his trip, Mr Grossi met with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, and Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science and Technology Tan See Leng. Their conversations focused on the region’s growing interest in nuclear energy, peaceful applications of nuclear technology such as in health and food security, and the importance of effective multilateralism.?
Singapore is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), many of whose members are considering nuclear power.?
“This visit confirmed what we are seeing worldwide: momentum is building, and ASEAN’s interest in nuclear energy is real and promising,” said Mr Grossi. “This stable and low-carbon option clearly has a role to play in the region’s energy future.”?
This topic was also covered during his meeting with Singapore’s president, which Mr Grossi called “an honour” and said: “Our exchange touched on shared priorities for a safer, more sustainable future.”??
This collaborative approach was also reflected in his meeting with the prime minister.