Oman Says No to Nuclear Power

Fukushima Nulear Power Plant After Earthquake

Fukushima Nulear Power Plant After Earthquake

The Omani representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) explained to an audience in Oman that the Sultanate has made the decision that it will not pursue the development of nuclear power as a source of electricity. It has not, however, ruled out Omani research into the use of nuclear power for scientific and medical purposes.

Oman’s Ambassador to Austria and permanent member of the IAEA, Dr. Badr bin Mohammed al Hinai said Oman came to this decision as a result of the Japanese nuclear disaster at Fukushima two years ago.

“After the Fukushima accident and following the safety and security concerns of establishing a nuclear program, Oman followed the examples of other countries such as Japan and Germany not to pursue a nuclear program but instead, to benefit from nuclear power applications.

“Let us mention that Oman is also seeking alternative sources of energy in solar, wind and wave energy, due to the propitious climate and geography of the region.”

Dr. Al Hinai was speaking at the third annual three-day Oman Power and Water Summit, jointly sponsored by the IQPC Middle East and Global Exhibitions and Conferences (GEC) together with the Public Authority for Electricity and Water.

GCC Head Zayani Proposes Overseer Of Region’s Nuclear Energy Development

Abdul Latif al Zayani

The Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Abdul Latif Al Zayani has proposed the established of a group whose function will be to monitor radiation levels in the region.

Zayani believes that the surge in the regional development of nuclear energy as a power source requires that an overseeing body be established to protect citizens and control energy producing companies.

“A technical committee has been formed to study the establishment of the center to monitor radiation resulting from nuclear expansion in the region,” Al Zayani said during his opening words at the International Security National Resilience Exhibition and Conference. The conference was held on Monday, March 19 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center.

Although no expected date for the establishment of the center was mentioned, nor a venue for it, Al Zayani was firm that such a center would surely be established by all the GCC states in the near future, for the safety and well-being of the citizens of the region.