The transfer of special equipment is part of supporting Moldova's efforts to strengthen the national nuclear security infrastructure. The truck was purchased by the IAEA with funds provided by Germany.
“In recent years, the safety of radioactive materials has become a key priority for Moldova, especially in terms of locating and securing orphan sources - those that have been lost, gone or never registered at all, and their transportation to safe storage facilities, ”said Julian Gisca, director of the National Company for Radioactive Waste Management of Moldova. Therefore, according to him, this specialized truck is of vital importance for Moldova.
There are a number of radioactive sources in the country, as well as small quantities of nuclear material that are used in medicine and industry, as well as for research purposes. Within the framework of the Technical Cooperation Program, the IAEA provides assistance to Moldova in implementing the achievements of nuclear science and technology.
It is estimated that about 20 million shipments of radioactive materials are carried out annually in the world. The IAEA assists governments and stakeholders around the world to keep them safe and secure.
The new truck for Moldova is equipped to work in difficult weather and road conditions and fully complies with the requirements of the European Union for transport safety and other international standards.
“The donation of a dedicated vehicle is just one example of how the IAEA is helping Agency Member States strengthen their national physical protection regimes when transporting nuclear and other radioactive material,” said Elena Buglova, Director of the IAEA's Nuclear Security Division. p>
Such support, she said, helps the international community to protect people, property and the environment from the risks of malicious acts during transit.
The relevant institutions of Moldova are taking measures to ensure nuclear and radiation safety in the country. But their efforts must be backed up by adequate resources.
