Iraq and Russia Sign Nuclear Energy Agreement at IAEA

In a significant step towards enhancing bilateral cooperation, Iraq and Russia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Dr. Naeem Al-Aboudi, Head of the Iraqi Atomic Energy Commission and Minister of Higher Education & Scientific Research, formalised the agreement with Alexey Likhachev, Director General of the Russian State Atomic Energy Corporation (ROSATOM), during the 68th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna.

This MoU marks a major milestone for Iraq, as it is the first agreement of its kind in the field of peaceful nuclear energy signed by the country since 2003. It also stands as the inaugural MoU for the Iraqi Atomic Energy Commission following the enactment of its governing law. Dr. Al-Aboudi emphasised the MoU’s significance, noting that it serves as a comprehensive roadmap for joint efforts in nuclear cooperation, underscoring Iraq’s commitment to advancing its nuclear capabilities for peaceful purposes.

“The MoU is a critical framework for collaboration, enabling Iraq to strengthen its expertise in nuclear physics and engineering. Our aim is to successfully implement its provisions in ways that benefit both nations,” Dr. Al-Aboudi stated. He further highlighted the role of Iraq’s educational institutions in supporting nuclear research and training and expressed gratitude for the scholarships offered by Russia to Iraqi students, which are designed to cultivate specialised technical expertise.

The agreement is seen as a pivotal moment in Iraq’s scientific and technological development, with peaceful nuclear energy playing a key role in diversifying Iraq’s energy resources. For a country whose economy is heavily reliant on oil, this MoU provides an opportunity to explore alternative energy options, which could contribute to both energy security and economic diversification in the long term.

ROSATOM’s Director General, Alexey Likhachev, reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to translating the MoU into actionable, joint scientific programmes. “We are ready to support Iraq in building its nuclear capabilities through this partnership. Our goal is to ensure the successful realisation of peaceful nuclear projects that serve the interests of both countries,” Likhachev stated.

The collaboration reflects the growing strategic partnership between Iraq and Russia, particularly in sectors beyond oil and military cooperation. This MoU not only strengthens Iraq’s position within the global nuclear energy landscape but also opens doors for future cooperation in advanced technologies and energy diversification—fields that are becoming increasingly vital in the face of global energy challenges.

Source: Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research