On June 23, the International Atomic Energy Agency held a kick-off meeting of the Nuclear Harmonization and Standardization Initiative (NHSI) to promote the global deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). SHEN Gang, Minister Counselor of the Permanent Mission of China in Vienna, attended the meeting.

SHEN Gang pointed out that nuclear energy would play an important role in coping with climate change. SMRs which could supply green and low-carbon energy have the advantages of short construction periods, wide application scenarios, and high inherent safety. This initiative, proposed by DG Grossi  will promote the development of common criteria, harmonize regulatory requirements, and hence to further promote the development of SMRs and other advanced nuclear technologies around the world. I believe NHSI is highly consistent with the Agency's mandate of "Atoms for Peace and Development", and is a concrete manifestation of the positive role that nuclear energy plays in achieving the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals as well.

SHEN Gang expressed that China welcomed NHSI and was willing to join this initiative. He stressed that the cooperation between China and the Agency in the field of peaceful use of nuclear was very much in line with the Global Development Initiative, GDI, proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping. China considers nuclear energy as an important option to achieve the 3060 commitment, which means, to reach carbon emission peak by 2030 and to realize carbon neutrality by 2060. SMRs will also occupy a more important position in the future. The nuclear safety regulatory body, MEE(NNSA) and nuclear industry have gained some useful experience on SMRs, and is glad to share with the international colleagues through NHSI. 

SHEN Gang hoped that through NHSI, a globally unified safety goal of SMRs will be established, and based on which, relevant standards will be harmonized. It will promote the safe and cost-effective development of SMRs globally.