Vietnam and France exchange knowledge on nuclear power advancement

Paris Gathering: Vietnam and France Delve into Nuclear Energy Synergy

The wind of cooperation between Vietnam and France is blowing strong, particularly in the realm of nuclear energy. This collaboration promises to be a game-changer in Vietnam's energy transition and growth trajectory.

Recently, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyễn Hoàng Long met with representatives from France's nuclear safety and radiation protection authorities- the French Authority for Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection (ASNR) and the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA). This summit took place during Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính's work trip to France on June 10.

The gathering, at the ASNR headquarters in Paris, brought together players like Việt Nam Electricity (EVN) and the Việt Nam National Industry - Energy Group (Petrovietnam), ASNR Board member Luc Lachaume, and CEA's Head of International Relations, Philippe Chapelot.

Long made it clear that the Ministry of Industry and Trade appreciates and aims to intensify the Vietnam-France Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with nuclear energy for peaceful purposes being a lucrative area ripe for enhanced cooperation. The discussions revolved around France's insights, perspectives, and Vietnam's needs to implement its nuclear energy development plan.

ASNR, a newly merged entity consisting of the French Nuclear Safety Authority (ASN) and the Institute for Radiological Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), is rapidly expanding. With approximately 2,000 staff members across France, ASNR oversees, conducts research, provides expert assessments, offers training, and handles communication in the realms of nuclear safety and radiation protection.

CEA, founded in 1945, is a public research organization under the French Government. Its primary focus lies in research and development of nuclear energy, encompassing reactor technology, nuclear fuel, and the treatment and recycling of nuclear waste. Additionally, CEA actively champions research into alternative energy sources, while ensuring safety and environmental protection related to nuclear energy.

Long expressed gratitude for the wisdom shared by ASNR and CEA, specifically their experience in managing and operating activities in the field of nuclear energy, as well as their expertise in developing policies for monitoring them. The Ministry of Industry and Trade expressed optimism that ASNR and CEA, building on their collaborative history with Vietnam, would expand their partnership, embracing areas like human resources training and technology transfer, thereby propelling Vietnam towards its nuclear energy aspirations.

Both sides also expressed an eagerness to focus on specific areas of cooperation in the near future. These include supporting Vietnam's development of a legal and policy framework for nuclear safety, ensuring compliance with international standards. They will also consider bolstering manpower training and development, engaging in technology transfer and technical assistance, and teaming up for research and expert exchanges.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyễn Hoàng Long had a working session with representatives from the French Authority for Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection (ASNR) and the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) at the ASNR headquarters on June 10. - VNA/VNS Photo

As Vietnam continues to stride forward in its energy journey, cooperation with France-a nation widely recognized for its expertise in nuclear energy-could prove instrumental in achieving nuclear energy goals, ensuring safety, and contributing to the Vietnam-France Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

In addition to their current collaborations, the Ministry of Industry and Trade aspires to intensify the Vietnam-France Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, particularly focusing on peaceful nuclear energy, as discussed in the Paris gathering.
The skills and knowledge provided by ASNR and CEA, in areas such as policy development and safety management, will be vital for Vietnam in implementing its nuclear energy development plan.
To support Vietnam's health and wellness, the discussed collaboration might also include bolstering manpower training and development, ensuring technology transfer and technical assistance, and conducting research and expert exchanges in medical-conditions related to nuclear energy.
The insights shared by France can help Vietnam navigate the complexities of nuclear energy trade, forging a more environmentally friendly and efficient energy sector in line with government policy.
With rapidly evolving technology in health-and-wellness, science, trade, and policy realms, this partnership could serve as a stepping stone for Vietnam to further leverage cutting-edge research and innovation from France in various sectors, promoting a sustainable and prosperous future for both nations.