Industry minister Hem Vanndy (right) meets with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) deputy director-general Liu Hua on March 18. MOI
Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation Hem Vanndy announced that the ministry would be intensifying its technological collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to mitigate food radiation and effectively manage pests, aiming to enhance food security and safety.
Vanndy made the statement during a meeting with an IAEA delegation, led by their deputy director-general and head of the group’s Department of Technical Cooperation Liu Hua on March 18.
The discussions focused on utilising nuclear technology for industrial purposes, notably in reducing food radiation and improving pest management techniques, according to a social media post for the ministry.
During the meeting, the minister praised the agency for its technical cooperation and reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing the partnership, leveraging nuclear technology for Cambodia’s advancement.
Hua emphasised the agency’s commitment to advocating for safe and peaceful applications of nuclear technology globally.
“Through its technical cooperation programme, the IAEA is extending support to member states across various sectors, such as health, agriculture and the environment,” he stated.
He added that the initiatives currently operational in Cambodia include the use of nuclear technology for medical diagnosis and treatment, agricultural development and radiation reduction equipment, all contributing to the improvement of security and safety.
Vanndy reaffirmed Cambodia’s readiness to enhance and broaden cooperation, particularly in reducing industrial radiation in the food sector and managing pests through radiation sterilisation techniques.
He stressed the country’s eagerness to foster both multilateral and bilateral partnerships with the intergovernmental body.
Theng Savoeun, director of the Coalition of Cambodian Farmer Community (CCFC), voiced support for their efforts to fortify technical collaboration.
These initiatives would significantly reinforce and augment the country’s capabilities, he said, adding that its current food and agricultural development strategies are in sync with digital advancements, particularly in atomic technology, which many developed countries have already adopted.
“It is commendable that the ministry and the IAEA have collaborated to enhance technology aimed at reducing industrial radiation, especially in the food industry, through the application of nuclear technology, a practice that is globally recognised,” he added.
