Hero-Arkadag, IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi Discuss Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation During Austria Visit

Vienna, The Gulf Observer: The National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, held a high-level meeting with Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, during his official visit to the Austria.

The two sides exchanged views on issues of mutual interest, underscoring the importance of strengthening cooperation in the peaceful use of atomic energy. Berdimuhamedow reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s commitment to a foreign policy rooted in its internationally recognized status of permanent neutrality, aimed at enhancing regional and global security.

Rafael Grossi commended Turkmenistan’s adherence to the principles of peaceful nuclear energy, noting that the Agency fully supports the country’s forward-looking policies and international initiatives focused on energy sustainability and environmental protection.

Both sides highlighted the steady advancement of bilateral cooperation, which has reached a qualitatively new stage in recent years. Berdimuhamedow emphasized that Turkmenistan strictly advocates the use of atomic energy for peaceful purposes, particularly in sectors such as healthcare.

With the support of the IAEA, Turkmenistan has introduced modern techniques for disease diagnosis and treatment. Engagements with international experts have strengthened the country’s capacity to combat serious diseases and improved the quality of medical services.

The meeting also focused on the preparation of a new Country Programme Framework for 2026–2030, which will outline key priorities for technical cooperation between Turkmenistan and the Agency.

Berdimuhamedow highlighted the importance of supporting landlocked developing countries, stating that access to peaceful nuclear technologies can serve as a powerful driver of development. He expressed appreciation for the IAEA’s participation in the Third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries held in Avaza last year.

Marking significant anniversaries related to the Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone Treaty and Turkmenistan’s accession to the IAEA, Berdimuhamedow proposed hosting a high-level regional forum in Ashgabat.

The discussions also covered broader international issues, with Turkmenistan reaffirming its commitment to sustainable development and global peace.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both Berdimuhamedow and Grossi expressed confidence in the continued expansion of multifaceted cooperation between Turkmenistan and the IAEA, emphasizing its importance for promoting peace, progress, and prosperity worldwide.