Djibouti participated in the 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), held in Vienna, Austria, from September 14 to 18, 2026. The Djiboutian delegation was led by Ambassador Yasin Hussein Da'aleh, Djibouti's ambassador to Austria and permanent representative to the IAEA. The delegation included key officials such as Marie Natalis, Director-General of the National Authority for Nuclear, Radiological, Chemical, and Biological Safety and Security.
In his address to the conference, Ambassador Yasin Hussein Da'aleh emphasized Djibouti's commitment to the principles of nuclear non-proliferation and the need for a nuclear-weapon-free world, particularly in the Middle East. He reviewed ongoing cooperation projects between Djibouti and the IAEA in areas such as health, environment, and energy, aimed at promoting peaceful uses of nuclear technology. Notably, he highlighted the project to establish a cancer treatment center, "Ashra' al-Amal," in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank and the IAEA.
Ambassador Da'aleh also showcased Djibouti's achievements in nuclear safety and security, including the establishment of the National Authority for Nuclear, Radiological, Chemical, and Biological Safety and Security, as well as the creation of the East Africa Climate and Environment Observatory in Djibouti. He expressed Djibouti's concerns regarding current nuclear safety crises and the risks of nuclear accidents worldwide, particularly in light of the escalating crisis in Yemen and its impact on maritime security in the Bab-el-Mandeb region.
On the sidelines of the General Conference, representatives of the National Authority for Nuclear, Radiological, Chemical, and Biological Safety and Security held discussions with IAEA officials on providing institutional support and enhancing the authority's capabilities in nuclear safety and security. The discussions also covered ongoing projects and future activities. Additionally, Ambassador Da'aleh and representatives of the National Social Security Fund participated in the "Scientific Forum" dedicated to combating cancer and promoting partnerships with international financial institutions.
The Djiboutian delegation also engaged in bilateral meetings with IAEA officials. On September 18, 2026, Ambassador Da'aleh met with Gashaw Gebeyehu Wolde, Director of the Africa Division in the IAEA's Department of Technical Cooperation. The meeting was attended by First Counselor Mohamed Othman Shari and several advisors. Wolde expressed his full support for implementing Djibouti's proposed projects, emphasizing his department's commitment to making them a reality.
The IAEA's 70th General Conference brought together representatives from various countries to discuss key issues related to nuclear energy, safety, and security. Djibouti's participation in the conference reflects its commitment to leveraging peaceful nuclear technology for national development. The conference provided a platform for countries to share experiences, best practices, and innovative solutions in the nuclear sector.
Djibouti's engagement with the IAEA is part of its broader efforts to enhance its capacities in nuclear safety, security, and technology. The country's collaboration with international organizations and partners underscores its dedication to promoting sustainable development and addressing pressing global challenges. Key points include Djibouti's commitment to nuclear non-proliferation, its cooperation with the IAEA in areas such as health and environment, and its efforts to enhance nuclear safety and security.
Key points
- Djibouti emphasizes its commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and peaceful uses of nuclear technology.
- The country is working with the IAEA on projects related to health, environment, and energy.
- Djibouti is enhancing its capacities in nuclear safety and security through collaboration with international partners.
