The IAEA acknowledges Vietnam's significant progress in nuclear power development.

On December 11th, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) delegation concluded its more than 10-day working trip with the Ministry of Science and Technology (MST), led by the Department of Radiation and Nuclear Safety, to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the national nuclear power infrastructure (Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review Mission – INIR Mission).

The delegation, led by Eric Mathet, Head of the IAEA's Nuclear Infrastructure Development Division, consisted of 10 experts and 1 observer. The expert group noted two good practices from Vietnam that could serve as valuable lessons for other countries developing nuclear power.

Ms. Aline Des Cloizeaux, Head of the Nuclear Energy Section of the IAEA's Nuclear Energy Division, hands over the draft preliminary INIR report to Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Le Xuan Dinh. (Photo: Ministry of Science and Technology)

Firstly , the National Assembly's adoption of Resolution 189/2025/QH15 demonstrates a strong political commitment to the nuclear power program, while also establishing a specific mechanism to simplify investment procedures, expedite land clearance, expand the ability to mobilize capital and select contractors, and enhance coordination among ministries, sectors, and localities.

This is a practice that the IAEA considers crucial to ensuring the progress and sustainability of the program.

Secondly, Vietnam has effectively utilized its existing environmental monitoring experience and network to support the preparation of the nuclear power project. This is a practice recommended by the IAEA as it helps improve the quality of environmental assessments, increase transparency, and reduce project preparation time.

According to IAEA representatives, these two practices demonstrate that Vietnam is approaching its nuclear power program in a systematic manner, in line with international standards, and shows a determination to implement it responsibly and effectively.

The INIR delegation concluded that Vietnam has made significant progress in restarting and accelerating the implementation of the Ninh Thuan Nuclear Power Plant Project, as well as developing the necessary infrastructure.

The draft preliminary report of the INIR working group also includes 38 recommendations and 13 proposals. The report emphasizes areas requiring further action to benefit Vietnam, including strengthening the legal and regulatory framework for radiation safety, nuclear safety, nuclear security and safeguards, and implementing plans to enhance human resource capacity.

Simultaneously, finalize preparations for the bidding and construction phases, develop a national strategy on the nuclear fuel cycle and radioactive waste management, and update coordination mechanisms among all stakeholders.

According to the planned schedule, in Q1 2026, the IAEA and Vietnam will collaborate to finalize the draft INIR report, and in Q2 2026, the IAEA will submit the official report to the Vietnamese Government after completing the necessary procedures.