With a record number of more than 350 participants, the joint EU-IAEA side event “Towards Strengthening Global Nuclear Security” on 22 September 2021 highlighted the EU’s continued and significant support to global nuclear security. The EU remains a major donor to the IAEA Nuclear Security Fund, with nearly 60 million EUR allocated for the period of 2005-2023 through eight successive EU Council Decisions.

In particular, the EU and the IAEA highlighted the benefits of international cooperation and the importance of all States joining relevant international instruments in the area of nuclear security. Adherence to the amended Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (A/CPPNM) remains crucial in this regard. The IAEA stands ready to support IAEA Member States, upon their request, in providing technical assistance and building capacities to enhance global nuclear security.

Two countries - Argentina and Cameroon - shared national experiences and lessons learnt from the strengthening of the legal and regulatory framework and the adoption and implementation of the A/CPPNM.

It became clear that security for one is security for all and that the global nuclear security framework is as strong as its weakest link.