The VCDNP and IAEA Conclude Practical Arrangements

The VCDNP is delighted to announce that on 31 January 2023, the VCDNP and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) concluded Practical Arrangements, codifying their cooperative relationship of more than 10 years. VCDNP Executive Director Elena K. Sokova signed the Practical Arrangements at a ceremony at the IAEA, together with Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications Najat Mokhtar and Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Safeguards Massimo Aparo. Other members of senior management from different departments were also present for the ceremony. The Practical Arrangements pave the way for strengthened cooperation spanning all main areas of the IAEA’s work, including international safeguards, nuclear security and peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology.

Since the Center opened its doors in 2011, it has worked extensively with different IAEA departments in all aspects of the VCDNP’s mission. The VCDNP and the IAEA regularly collaborate on capacity building programmes, including specialised courses on international safeguards and nuclear security for diplomats and practitioners, particularly from developing, least‑developed and nuclear newcomer countries. These courses were developed in response to Member States’ demand and interest from IAEA senior management.

The Center has always tailored its research and outreach activities to the needs of the IAEA and its Member States, including the work on safeguards, nuclear security, peaceful uses, and other areas. The VCDNP also regularly assists the IAEA as a convener of results‑oriented meetings, such as the workshop the VCDNP hosted in the summer of 2022 in preparation for the 2022 Symposium on International Safeguards. VCDNP experts contributed actively to the implementation of the Symposium’s programme, including speaking in nine panel discussions, moderating two sessions and submitting four papers for the meeting.

The Practical Arrangements are a recognition of this active and longstanding relationship between the VCDNP and the IAEA, and will facilitate their enhanced collaboration in the future.