As part of the 68th General Conference, a pivotal side event was held on 17 September 2024, bringing together delegates and experts to discuss and strategize on enhancing regional cooperation in nuclear science and technology across Asia and the Pacific. This event, titled “RCA: Advancing Sustainable Development in the Asia-Pacific Region”, gathered over 100 participants including the representatives from the RCA Government Parties, the IAEA, RCARO and other organizations and countries outside the region. 

Keynote speeches were delivered by Mr Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the IAEA, Mr Sang-Im YOO, Minister of Science and ICT, Republic of Korea, and Mr Jing LIU, Vice Chairman of China Atomc Energy Authority. 

This side event served as a dynamic forum for RCA stakeholders to discuss and share ideas on the Regional Cooperative Agreement’s (RCA) contributions to socio-economic development across the Asia-Pacific region. Key topics included the contribution of RCA to socio-economic development, creating synergies between the RCA programme and IAEA initiative, and strategies for future partnerships. 

Discussions during the event centered on the vital role that nuclear technology plays in addressing the region’s pressing challenges, including food security, human health, and environmental protection. By sharing experiences and insights, participants aimed to enhance the effectiveness and reach of nuclear applications in contributing to sustainable development across the region.