On November 28, 2024, Prof. Dr. Supachai Pathumanakul, MHESI Permanent Secretary, participated in a bilateral meeting with Mr. Rafael Mariano Grossi (DG Grossi), Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). During the meeting, DG Grossi presented a report evaluating nuclear security for radioactive materials outside regulatory control in Thailand to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation.
The two discussed various topics related to enhancing Thailand’s nuclear and radiation regulatory capabilities, including safety, security, safeguards, and the promotion of peaceful uses of nuclear technology. Prof. Dr. Supachai expressed gratitude for the IAEA’s continued support, particularly the designation of the Faculty of Medicine at Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, as an Anchor Center under the Rays of Hope initiative, serving as a development hub for nuclear medicine.
Prof. Dr. Supachai also requested the IAEA’s assistance in conducting an Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) to assess the strengths and weaknesses of Thailand’s nuclear and radiation regulatory system against IAEA standards. Additionally, he sought future support for the International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS) to evaluate the physical protection of radioactive materials. These activities, he noted, would strengthen regulatory operations, improve coordination with relevant agencies, and build public confidence.
DG Grossi and Prof. Dr. Supachai further discussed advancing the Office of Atoms for Peace (OAP) as a Collaborating Center for Security. OAP is well-prepared to support human resource development in emergency response to nuclear and radiological incidents and nuclear forensics for other interested member states.
Before concluding the meeting, Prof. Dr. Supachai invited DG Grossi to make an official visit to Thailand in 2025. The visit would include meetings with senior Thai officials, the inauguration of the Anchor Center, and tours of Thailand’s nuclear and radiation-related activities.
