The Maldives has highlighted strengthening radiation safety regulation as a priority as it seeks support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to develop cancer care in the country.
Speaking at the 70th Regular Session of the IAEA General Conference in Vienna, Maldives Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN Office at Geneva, Dr Salma Rasheed, said the country was seeking assistance to establish and advance cancer care, including through the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative.
Ambassador Salma said the Maldives also aimed to strengthen radiation safety regulation and build capacity for its first National Cancer Hospital.
The Maldives joined the IAEA in December 2025 and is participating in the agency’s General Conference for the first time as a member state.
Ambassador Salma said the Maldives had moved quickly to build a substantive partnership with the agency, guided by national priorities and the particular needs of Small Island Developing States facing the effects of climate change.
She also welcomed Timor-Leste as a fellow Small Island Developing State and a new member of the IAEA.
The ambassador said the Maldives would further outline its priorities through its forthcoming Country Programme Framework, while reaffirming the country’s commitment to the peaceful, safe and secure use of nuclear science and technology.
The IAEA General Conference, being held from 14 to 18 September, is the agency’s main policy-making forum. It brings together member states to review its work, approve its budget and programme, and set policy priorities on nuclear science and technology, safety, security and safeguards.