News & Events - AMSSNuR

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Rabat, July 7, 2025 – As part of the implementation of the Europe/Africa regional cooperation project funded by the European Union, the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR) hosted, from July 7 to 10, 2025 in Rabat, a training and experience-sharing workshop dedicated to leadership and safety culture among regulatory authorities.

Launched in February 2025 in Rabat under the banner “Strengthening nuclear safety regulatory capacity in Africa,” this regional project covers eight thematic areas aimed at building the capacity of regulatory bodies in the fields of nuclear safety and radiation protection in participating African countries.

This workshop, falling under the eighth theme of the project, was organized with the support of European experts, particularly from the Belgian technical support organization Bel V and the French Nuclear and Radiological Safety Authority (ASNR), and benefited representatives from the nuclear safety authorities of the Kingdom of Morocco, Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa.

The workshop focused on the application of IAEA standards related to leadership and safety culture, as well as the sharing of international best practices, particularly from Europe. It also led to the development of a roadmap for African authorities to promote these concepts and integrate them into their integrated management systems and capacity-building programs in nuclear and radiological safety and security.

This participation reflects AMSSNuR’s steadfast commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and promoting the highest standards of nuclear and radiological safety and security.

Vienna, Austria – The Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR), represented by its Director General, Mr. Saïd MOULINE, took part in the Steering Committee Meeting of the Regulatory Cooperation Forum (RCF), as well as the related support meeting, organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from 24 to 27 June 2025 in Vienna, Austria.

Established in 2010, the RCF serves as a platform for regulatory bodies from nuclear countries to promote and enhance collaboration and coordination with countries planning to introduce or expand the use of nuclear energy, as well as with relevant international organizations.

During this meeting, RCF members reviewed the progress made in developing regulatory infrastructure among active beneficiary countries, discussed cooperation mechanisms to foster the exchange of knowledge and experiences among members, examined key performance indicators for each cooperation project, and made strategic decisions on policy and implementation matters.

In his high-level intervention, Mr. Mouline presented AMSSNuR’s strategy for strengthening regulatory capacity, reaffirming its commitment to positioning itself as a strong, exemplary, and independent authority, fully dedicated to protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. He highlighted several structuring actions, stressing the importance of enhanced cooperation at both national and international levels with institutions, technical partners such as the IAEA, GNSSN, and RCF, as well as with the academic community.

Mr. Mouline also recalled the establishment of the African School for Radiological Safety Regulators, launched with IAEA support, as a continental platform for training, mentoring, and knowledge exchange aimed at developing regulatory competencies across Africa. He further underscored AMSSNuR’s role as an IAEA Collaborating Centre in emergency preparedness and response, as well as in nuclear security, having hosted over 90 activities since its designation.

Moreover, Mr. Mouline emphasized the significance of AMSSNuR’s ISO 9001 certification for its Integrated Management System, demonstrating its strong commitment to governance, organizational excellence, and continuous improvement.

He also addressed the challenges of sustaining regulatory capabilities, particularly regarding the management of radioactive ores and emergency preparedness, submitting targeted support requests to the RCF.

AMSSNuR’s participation in these meetings once again highlighted its active role in strengthening international cooperation and regulatory vigilance, its strategic involvement in IAEA networks, and its continued commitment to supporting African countries in upgrading their regulatory frameworks.

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Paris, 23 June 2025 – In line with its mission to strengthen national capacities in nuclear safety and security, the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR) was represented by its Secretary General, Mr. Reda NOUR, at the Master Class organized by the International Institute of Nuclear Energy (I2EN) in Paris, from 23 to 27 June 2025.

This high-level event, entitled “Strategic Fundamentals for New Nuclear,” brought together government officials, experts, regulators, financial institutions, and nuclear industry stakeholders from around the world. The Master Class aimed to provide a comprehensive strategic understanding of the essential foundations required to develop new nuclear programs, at a time when nuclear energy is once again emerging as a central pillar in the future global energy mix.

Throughout this intensive week, participants engaged in meaningful exchanges with leading French experts, explored concrete case studies, and shared experiences with peers. The program also included technical visits to the CEA Saclay Research Center, the EdF campus, and the Emergency Equipment Centre of the ASNR, offering a hands-on view of France’s capabilities in nuclear innovation, training, and research. This immersion provided valuable insight into how France organizes its governance, develops its nuclear infrastructure, and plans for the sustainable management of nuclear materials and waste.

Discussions addressed critical aspects such as strategic planning prior to political decision-making, the economic and social viability of nuclear projects, the development of robust regulatory frameworks aligned with international standards, and the cultivation of long-term human capital. Key topics such as safety, security, safeguards, and emergency preparedness were approached through an integrated and forward-looking lens.

Through its participation, AMSSNuR continues to reinforce its regulatory and strategic vision, strengthen its professional network with key players in the global nuclear sector, and identify best practices that can be tailored to the Moroccan context—with the goal of supporting the future development of a responsible, well-governed, and sustainable national nuclear program.

Vienna, Austria – In a constantly evolving digital landscape where misinformation can spread at lightning speed, the management of nuclear and radiological crises faces new and complex challenges. In this context, the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR) participated in the International Technical Meeting entitled “Public Communication in Emergencies: Tackling Misinformation and Retaining Public Trust in Disruptive Information Environments”, held from 23 to 27 June 2025 in Vienna and organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). At the heart of the discussions: the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on emergency communication and the pressing need for a proactive approach to address its implications.

The rise of generative AI has transformed content creation, enabling the rapid production of hyper-realistic text, images, and audio. While this technology offers unprecedented opportunities to enhance official communication in times of crisis, it also poses a significant risk of spreading false information, which can cause panic and distort critical messages. In the face of this technological dilemma, AMSSNuR has made its position clear: AI must be harnessed as an ally in the fight against misinformation.

In its intervention, AMSSNuR emphasized the urgent need to develop AI-based tools capable of rapidly detecting misleading content, strengthening fact-checking processes, and amplifying the dissemination of reliable and verified information. The dual objective is to maintain public trust—an essential element during emergencies—and to ensure optimal coordination among all stakeholders, including operators and relevant institutions.

AMSSNuR’s active participation in this international dialogue, alongside representatives from more than 55 countries, reflects its commitment to embracing new technologies in a strategic, ethical, and resilient manner within its nuclear safety framework. In the age of algorithms, mastering information is more than ever a core component of nuclear and radiological safety and security. Through its forward-thinking approach, AMSSNuR positions itself as a key player in building robust and adaptive responses to tomorrow’s challenges.

Rabat – For the first time, Morocco has been granted the highest level of assurance by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in the field of nuclear safeguards.

The Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR) announced that the IAEA, in its 2024 annual safeguards report, has classified Morocco under the “Full Transparency” (Conclusion Élargie) status. This recognition confirms that all nuclear materials within the Kingdom’s territory are used exclusively for peaceful purposes.

This achievement underscores the strength of Morocco’s regulatory framework, its commitment to nuclear transparency, and its strict compliance with international non-proliferation obligations.

The IAEA’s highest assurance level follows years of verification activities under Morocco’s Safeguards Agreement (1975) and Additional Protocol (2011), covering nuclear facilities, off-site locations, operations, materials, and technologies.

The milestone reflects the dedicated efforts of AMSSNuR alongside national stakeholders, in upholding the Kingdom’s commitments under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and IAEA agreements.

RABAT, Morocco – June 2, 2025 – Morocco’s commitment to nuclear safety and security leadership takes center stage this week as the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR) hosts the 22nd Steering Committee meeting of the Forum of Nuclear Regulatory Bodies in Africa (FNRBA). This major event brings together the highest bodies of African regulatory authorities, as well as representatives from the IAEA, the European Commission (EC), the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE), and other key organizations such as the French Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Authority (ASNR).

Supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), FNRBA serves as a vital regional network, established in 2009 and now encompassing the nuclear and radiological authorities of 34 African IAEA member states. The forum provides a platform for exchanging experiences, sharing best practices, and collectively strengthening regulatory capacities in alignment with stringent international standards.

The significance of the meeting was underscored in the opening address by Mr. Saïd MOULINE, Director General of AMSSNuR and current President of the Global Nuclear Safety and Security Network (GNSSN). He highlighted the critical timing of the discussions, set against a backdrop of rapidly evolving nuclear technologies, including the rise of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), and the pressing challenges posed by climate change.

Mr. MOULINE emphasized the shared responsibility of African regulators. “As the use of ionizing radiation expands in key sectors such as health, industry, agriculture, research, and energy across our continent, our regulatory responsibility has never been more critical,” he stated. “This growth, while bringing substantial benefits, requires strong regulatory oversight, harmonized approaches, and sustained capacity building.”

He reiterated the imperative to ensure all nuclear and radiological applications on the continent are developed and utilized safely, securely, and in full compliance with international norms. Mr. MOULINE also showcased Morocco’s proactive stance, referencing the landmark adoption of Law No. 142-12 in 2014, which paved the way for AMSSNuR’s establishment in 2016. He outlined the agency’s strategic focus on modernizing regulatory processes through digitalization, enhancing competencies, fostering stakeholder communication, and rigorously aligning with IAEA standards – all reflecting a deep commitment to transparency, quality, and good governance.

Underscoring the power of collaboration, Mr. MOULINE pointed to AMSSNuR’s active participation in networks like FNRBA, GNSSN, and the Arab Network of Nuclear Regulators (ANNuR). The agency has also solidified over twenty bilateral cooperation agreements, positioning itself as a trusted partner for capacity-building efforts within Africa and globally. A tangible example cited was the launch in February 2025 of a major cooperation project under the European Commission’s Instrument for Nuclear Safety Cooperation (INSC), coordinated from Morocco to benefit FNRBA member states.

Addressing the specific needs of the region, Mr. Reda NOUR, Secretary General of AMSSNuR and the FNRBA Coordinator for North Africa, presented a comprehensive analysis of safety and security requirements for North African nations. Based on IAEA-compliant self-assessments, his presentation acknowledged significant progress made by countries like Morocco (AMSSNuR) and Egypt (ENRRA) in establishing robust regulatory frameworks, while also identifying persistent priorities. These include the ongoing need to strengthen regulatory infrastructure, continuously develop human capacity, and actively promote a pervasive culture of nuclear safety and security.

The four-day meeting features a comprehensive agenda. Participants will receive updates on collaborations with international partners, including the European Union, the US Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA/US DoE), the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), the Heads of the European Radiological Protection Competent Authorities (HERCA), the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), and the GNSSN. Discussions will also cover IAEA regional assistance priorities, the progress of FNRBA’s thematic working groups, further analysis of regional needs, and the ongoing implementation of the forum’s strategic plan.

As part of the Moroccan-American military cooperation in disaster management, an exercise to counter Weapons of Mass Destruction (C-WMD) took place on Tuesday at the military port of Agadir.

This training occurred during the combined Moroccan-American exercise “African Lion 2025,” held in accordance with the High Instructions of His Majesty the King, Supreme Commander and Chief of General Staff of the Royal Armed Forces.

It focuses primarily on conducting reconnaissance operations, neutralizing improvised Weapons of Mass Destruction, radiological dispersal devices, and CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear) decontamination.

This exercise aims to further enhance the operational and tactical capabilities of the CBRN, Flood Rescue (Diving), and EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) companies of the FAR’s Rescue and Salvage Unit (USS) to face a crisis situation involving radiological, chemical, and explosive risks.

Through a scenario utilizing the personnel and material resources of the CBRN, Flood Rescue, and EOD companies of the FAR’s Rescue and Salvage Unit, this exercise was designed to practice ship decontamination techniques and develop procedures for countering Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

Focused on an interconnected scenario very close to reality, the theme of the C-WMD exercise will enable the CBRN, Flood Rescue, and EOD companies of the FAR’s Rescue and Salvage Unit to intervene effectively to manage an incident involving chemical, radiological, and explosive agents.

The scenario of this exercise, which took place in the presence notably of Major General Mohammed Benouali, South Zone Chief of Staff, and Brigadier General Daniel Cederman, Deputy Commanding General-Reserve- of the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-Africa), consists of an intervention to secure the port of Agadir upon the arrival of a suspicious vessel carrying WMD materials.

Indeed, Moroccan and Ghanaian special forces launched a boarding operation on the vessel using maritime assault techniques before taking full control of the ship and securing the area.

Subsequently, the special forces teams undertook a meticulous inspection of the vessel which revealed the presence of materials and equipment associated with weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

Clandestine laboratories and containers of chemical agents were discovered in various compartments of the ship.

The CBRN and EOD teams of the USS will be deployed to assess and neutralize the threats, using a drone and specialized equipment.

In parallel, USS divers, assisted by specialized divers from the Royal Navy, inspected the hull to detect any potential explosive devices, while experts from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) supervised the technical reconnaissance and recommended specific measures for managing the chemical agents.

Finally, the USS CBRN team carried out decontamination, triage, medical care operations, as well as air and ground evacuation of victims to receive necessary care.

Launched on the 12th of this month, the “African Lion 2025” Exercise runs until May 23rd, in the regions of Agadir, Tan-Tan, Tiznit, Kenitra, Benguerir, and Tifnit.

It aims to strengthen military cooperation between Morocco and the United States, develop interoperability, and enhance intervention capabilities in a multinational context, thus contributing to the promotion of security, peace, and stability in the region.

The 21st edition of the “African Lion” Exercise also includes parallel humanitarian and social actions.

Source: article written by L’Opinion with MAP, 20 March 2025.

Vienna – Underscoring Morocco’s prominent role in global nuclear safety and security, the Austrian capital recently hosted the 22nd Steering Committee meeting of the Global Nuclear Safety and Security Network (GNSSN). Held from April 28th to 30th, 2025, under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the gathering marked a pivotal moment for evaluating the network’s accomplishments and defining its future trajectory.

Representing the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR) at this significant international forum was Mr. Reda NOUR, the Secretary General of AMSSNuR. He attended on behalf of Mr. Saïd MOULINE, Director General of AMSSNuR and current President of the GNSSN. The meeting served as a strategic platform to review the substantial progress made by the network, placing particular emphasis on capacity-building initiatives, through specialized training programs designed to empower Member States in developing and strengthening their national nuclear safety and security infrastructures.

The discussions extended beyond the network’s overall achievements to assess the advancements made by its constituent regional networks. This focus aimed to foster enhanced interregional cooperation and ensure a more effective synchronization of international efforts within this critical field.

A rigorous review of the GNSSN’s 2025-2026 action plan was also undertaken during the meeting. The objective was to guarantee that the network’s strategies remain optimally aligned with the emerging and rapidly evolving challenges in nuclear safety and security. This forward-looking approach seeks to adapt to the constantly changing global landscape and bolster the resilience of national systems.

Key conclusions from the meeting underscored the importance of consolidating collaboration among Member States. Promoting the exchange of knowledge and best practices was highlighted as essential for strengthening national nuclear regulatory systems. Furthermore, the meeting emphasized the necessity of intensifying efforts to support states in reinforcing their domestic legal and regulatory frameworks. This involves organizing targeted training workshops and reviewing existing legislative measures to ensure the safe, secure, and sustainable management of diverse nuclear technologies.

In essence, the Vienna meeting reaffirmed the GNSSN’s vital role as a cornerstone of international cooperation in nuclear safety and security. The network stands as a central hub for connecting expertise, facilitating knowledge sharing among Member States, and diligently working towards the responsible and secure utilization of nuclear technologies across the globe.

Looking ahead, the next meeting of the GNSSN Steering Committee is scheduled to take place in the final quarter of 2025.

Amman, April 29, 2025

– On the sidelines of the high-level international workshop on nuclear security, held from April 28 to 30 in Amman, Jordan, Mr. Saïd Mouline, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR), called for coordinated national and regional strategies to confront the rapidly evolving threats posed by nuclear and radiological risks in an increasingly technology-driven world.

In his address, Mr. Saïd Mouline highlighted the emergence of major challenges, including those related to artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the rapid expansion of civil nuclear programs—particularly in the MENA region. He emphasized the need for enhanced regional cooperation, grounded in open dialogue, mutual trust, and support for the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) programs.

Mr. Saïd Mouline underscored Morocco’s ongoing efforts, through AMSSNuR, to establish a robust regulatory infrastructure, supported by an Integrated Nuclear Security Support Plan (INSSP) developed in collaboration with the IAEA. This approach is driven by a strategic vision focused on capacity building and the sustainability of national expertise.

He reaffirmed Morocco’s strong commitment to global nuclear security, noting key milestones such as AMSSNuR’s designation by the IAEA as the first Regional Centre for nuclear security infrastructure in Africa, Morocco’s active participation in the Nuclear Security Summits, and the organization of the 3rd International Conference of Regulators in 2019.

Mr. Saïd Mouline concluded by commending the organization of this workshop—a joint effort by the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission, the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), and the IAEA—which he described as a strategic platform for anticipating emerging threats and enhancing collective resilience across MENA countries.

Rabat, April 25, 2025

As part of its strategic foresight mission, the Royal Institute for Strategic Studies (IRES) organized a two-day meeting on April 24-25, 2025, to discuss the future of nuclear energy both globally and within Morocco.

The event brought together a high-level panel of experts, including representatives from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), international nuclear organizations, global consultancy firms specializing in nuclear energy, Moroccan government ministries, and national institutions involved in nuclear development. Experts in nuclear power, nuclear security, and safety from Morocco and abroad also participated.

The event provided a platform to assess the latest technological advancements in the field of civilian nuclear energy worldwide. Participants explored potential synergies between nuclear energy and green hydrogen production, evaluated Morocco’s current capabilities in nuclear applications, and discussed the key regulatory, technical, financial, and human resource challenges facing the sector.

The insightful discussions led to the development of innovative strategic directions, which were consolidated into a roadmap aimed at establishing a sustainable civilian nuclear sector in Morocco. This roadmap is designed to support the country’s energy transition and the decarbonization of its economy over the medium and long term.

Source: the Royal Institute for Strategic Studies (IRES).

Older Posts

Strengthening Regulatory Capacity for Nuclear Safety in Africa: AMSSNuR Hosts Regional Workshop in Rabat on Leadership and Safety Culture

IAEA Regulatory Cooperation Forum Steering Committee Meeting: AMSSNuR at the Heart of Nuclear Safety Cooperation

AMSSNuR Strengthens Its Strategic Nuclear Vision in Paris

AI at the Heart of Nuclear Crisis Management: AMSSNuR Advocates for an Informed Response

Nuclear Safeguards: Morocco Receives Highest Level of Assurance from IAEA for the First Time

AMSSNuR hosts the 22nd Steering Committee Meeting of the FNRBA in Rabat, strengthening African cooperation in nuclear and radiological safety and security

African Lion 2025: Weapons of Mass Destruction exercise at Agadir military port

AMSSNuR strengthens its international leadership: GNSSN sets new priorities in nuclear safety and security in Vienna

AMSSNuR Advocates for an Integrated Regional Strategy to Address Emerging Nuclear and Radiological Risks

The Future of Nuclear Energy Globally and in Morocco

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