Committee approves Maldives’ IAEA participation

The Foreign Relations Committee of the Parliament has approved Maldives’ participation in the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The approval to join the IAEA was unanimously approved by the members present at the Foreign Relations Committee meeting. The President approved the Maldives’ participation in the IAEA, with a focus on seeking assistance in nuclear medicine, which is crucial for cancer treatment. The Ministry of Defence will spearhead the process of joining the IAEA, which the government notes will be a long-term endeavour. Joining the IAEA is expected to enhance the Maldives’ capabilities in nuclear medicine and renewable energy. Established on July 29, the IAEA aims to prevent the use of nuclear energy for military purposes while promoting its benefits. It currently has 178 member countries; the Maldives and Bhutan are the only regional nations not yet members. According to the Constitution of Maldives, international treaties must be submitted to and approved by Parliament before they can be implemented.