Cooperation - AMSSNuR

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Rabat, June 23, 2026 – The Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security and PortNet S.A., in charge of managing the national single window for foreign trade procedures in Morocco, have reached a new milestone in strengthening their institutional collaboration through the signing of an Electronic Data Interchange contract between their respective information systems, the Agency’s Authorization Information System and the National Single Window system “PORTNET”.

The signing ceremony was conducted by Mr. Saïd MOULINE, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security, and Mr. Youssef AHOUZI, General Manager of PortNet S.A., in the presence of senior officials and executives from both institutions.

This initiative is fully in line with national orientations regarding digital transformation and the digital transition of public administration. It reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to modernizing public services, simplifying administrative procedures, and continuously improving the support provided to economic operators.

The established framework will enable a secure, automated, and reliable electronic exchange of data relating to applications for import and export authorizations of ionizing radiation sources. This interconnection will contribute to optimizing file processing, reducing evaluation times, strengthening the traceability of operations, and improving the quality of services rendered to users.

On this occasion, Mr. Saïd MOULINE emphasized that this signing constitutes an important step in strengthening collaboration between the Moroccan Agency and PortNet S.A., two institutions sharing a common ambition: to put digital technology at the service of public performance and administrative efficiency. He recalled that, within a context marked by the acceleration of the digital transformation of administrations, the interoperability of information systems represents today an essential lever to guarantee fluid, transparent, and secure data exchanges.

Mr. Saïd MOULINE also highlighted the importance of the availability of reliable, secure, and timely information for the exercise of the Moroccan Agency’s regulatory missions in nuclear and radiological safety and security, as well as for compliance with the international commitments of the Kingdom of Morocco in these fields.

Furthermore, Mr. Saïd MOULINE pointed out that this collaboration will not only contribute to optimizing the processing of authorization requests and improving their efficiency, but also to strengthening institutional coordination among the various stakeholders involved. In this regard, he insisted on the paramount nature of data protection as well as the need to guarantee data confidentiality, integrity, and availability, which constitute essential requirements to which both institutions attach particular importance.

This interconnection between the Agency’s Authorization Information System platform and the PORTNET platform will thus foster increased digitalization of administrative exchanges, better fluidity of regulatory procedures, and enhanced transparency in file processing, while guaranteeing a high level of information security.

At the end of the ceremony, both parties commended the joint work of the technical and operational teams that contributed to the realization of this structural project. They reaffirmed their determination to pursue the development of common initiatives in the service of the digital transformation of the administration, the improvement of national economic competitiveness, and the enhancement of the quality of public services.

Through this partnership, the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security and PortNet S.A. reiterate their shared commitment to promoting a modern, efficient, secure administration firmly oriented toward the needs of citizens and economic operators.Through this partnership, the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security and PortNet S.A. reiterate their shared commitment to promoting a modern, efficient, secure administration firmly oriented toward the needs of citizens and economic operators.

Pretoria, 14–16 January 2026 – As part of the implementation of the Nuclear Safety Cooperation Project (INSC), funded by the European Union and aimed at strengthening African regulatory capacities in the fields of nuclear and radiological safety, a delegation from the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR), represented by its Secretary General, Mr. Reda Nour, accompanied by the Head of the Nuclear Safety, Security and Safeguards Department, took part in the second bilateral follow-up meetings of the project, as well as the second meeting of its Steering Committee, held from 14 to 16 January 2026 in Pretoria, South Africa.

Hosted by the South African National Nuclear Regulator (NNR), these meetings brought together more than thirty representatives from the European Commission, the project manager Expertise France, as well as nuclear and radiological safety authorities from Africa and Europe, notably from Belgium, Finland, Spain, France, the Kingdom of Morocco, South Africa, Egypt, Ghana, and Nigeria.

The meetings focused on reviewing the progress made in implementing the 2025 action plans for each beneficiary safety authority, as well as defining and validating the strategic and operational orientations of the 2026 action plan. Particular emphasis was placed on capacity building, training planning, on-site technical assistance missions, and knowledge and expertise transfer activities.

In this context, the AMSSNuR delegation presented a detailed overview of the activities carried out in 2025, notably marked by the organization of the project’s kick-off meeting in February 2025, the conduct of six workshops and training sessions totaling more than 30 days of capacity-building activities, and active participation in several international technical and scientific events.

The delegation also highlighted the impact of these activities, which benefited more than 60 representatives from African authorities, as well as AMSSNuR staff and other national institutions, thereby contributing to the development of competencies in nuclear safety, radiation protection, and emergency preparedness and response.

Discussions enabled the definition of the main orientations of the 2026 action plan, which includes more than fifty bilateral, multilateral, and remote activities, with an overall estimated budget of 1.5 million euros.

The Steering Committee meeting, bringing together the Directors General of the African partner authorities, resulted in the official validation of the 2026 action plan and the launch of a new phase of the project.

On this occasion, European partners praised the dynamic role played by AMSSNuR, describing it as a regional model for the exemplary integration of project activities into its strategic objectives and for the assessment of the impact of cooperation with the European Union on strengthening its national and regional capacities in nuclear and radiological safety.

Through this active participation, AMSSNuR reaffirms its commitment to implementing the 2026 action plan, sustainably strengthening national competencies in nuclear and radiological safety, promoting leadership and a strong safety culture, and sharing its experience with African partner authorities, thereby contributing to responsible and cooperative nuclear governance across the African continent.

Vienna, September 2025 – On the sidelines of the 69th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), a ceremony was held to renew the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (DOE/NNSA) and the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR). The event was attended by H.E. Azzeddine Farhane, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Morocco to the International Organizations in Vienna. This renewal reaffirms both institutions’ commitment to strengthening their cooperation in the field of nuclear security.

Originally signed in May 2018 for a period of five years, the MoU has now been renewed for another five years. It covers a wide range of cooperation areas, including the exchange of experts and researchers, provision of equipment and technical support, organization of training courses, workshops, and joint exercises, as well as support for regional cooperation in the Middle East, North Africa, and across the African continent. The MoU also addresses vital areas such as physical protection against theft and sabotage, nuclear material accounting and control, cybersecurity, strengthening nuclear security culture, and preparedness and response to incidents.

Since its first signing, AMSSNuR has organized more than 30 workshops in Rabat and other Moroccan cities, benefiting over 400 specialists from facility operators, regulatory authorities, and relevant organizations. The U.S. side has contributed to establishing the national physical protection system at four facilities containing category I radioactive sources, reviewing laws and guidance related to the security of radioactive sources and safeguards, and implementing a national system for nuclear material accounting and measurement. Cooperation has also included the provision of detection equipment and the enhancement of Morocco’s national nuclear security capacities.

In the coming months, several activities are planned under this MoU, including a national workshop on developing regulatory requirements for cybersecurity (22–26 September 2025), a regional workshop on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to mitigate insider threats (20–24 October 2025), and a pilot international training course on incident response (3–7 November 2025).

This renewal reflects the shared determination of NNSA and AMSSNuR to continue their joint efforts to counter illicit acts targeting nuclear materials and to strengthen the nuclear security framework at the national, regional, and international levels.

RABAT, Morocco – June 2, 2025 – Morocco’s commitment to nuclear safety and security leadership takes center stage this week as the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR) hosts the 22nd Steering Committee meeting of the Forum of Nuclear Regulatory Bodies in Africa (FNRBA). This major event brings together the highest bodies of African regulatory authorities, as well as representatives from the IAEA, the European Commission (EC), the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE), and other key organizations such as the French Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Authority (ASNR).

Supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), FNRBA serves as a vital regional network, established in 2009 and now encompassing the nuclear and radiological authorities of 34 African IAEA member states. The forum provides a platform for exchanging experiences, sharing best practices, and collectively strengthening regulatory capacities in alignment with stringent international standards.

The significance of the meeting was underscored in the opening address by Mr. Saïd MOULINE, Director General of AMSSNuR and current President of the Global Nuclear Safety and Security Network (GNSSN). He highlighted the critical timing of the discussions, set against a backdrop of rapidly evolving nuclear technologies, including the rise of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), and the pressing challenges posed by climate change.

Mr. MOULINE emphasized the shared responsibility of African regulators. “As the use of ionizing radiation expands in key sectors such as health, industry, agriculture, research, and energy across our continent, our regulatory responsibility has never been more critical,” he stated. “This growth, while bringing substantial benefits, requires strong regulatory oversight, harmonized approaches, and sustained capacity building.”

He reiterated the imperative to ensure all nuclear and radiological applications on the continent are developed and utilized safely, securely, and in full compliance with international norms. Mr. MOULINE also showcased Morocco’s proactive stance, referencing the landmark adoption of Law No. 142-12 in 2014, which paved the way for AMSSNuR’s establishment in 2016. He outlined the agency’s strategic focus on modernizing regulatory processes through digitalization, enhancing competencies, fostering stakeholder communication, and rigorously aligning with IAEA standards – all reflecting a deep commitment to transparency, quality, and good governance.

Underscoring the power of collaboration, Mr. MOULINE pointed to AMSSNuR’s active participation in networks like FNRBA, GNSSN, and the Arab Network of Nuclear Regulators (ANNuR). The agency has also solidified over twenty bilateral cooperation agreements, positioning itself as a trusted partner for capacity-building efforts within Africa and globally. A tangible example cited was the launch in February 2025 of a major cooperation project under the European Commission’s Instrument for Nuclear Safety Cooperation (INSC), coordinated from Morocco to benefit FNRBA member states.

Addressing the specific needs of the region, Mr. Reda NOUR, Secretary General of AMSSNuR and the FNRBA Coordinator for North Africa, presented a comprehensive analysis of safety and security requirements for North African nations. Based on IAEA-compliant self-assessments, his presentation acknowledged significant progress made by countries like Morocco (AMSSNuR) and Egypt (ENRRA) in establishing robust regulatory frameworks, while also identifying persistent priorities. These include the ongoing need to strengthen regulatory infrastructure, continuously develop human capacity, and actively promote a pervasive culture of nuclear safety and security.

The four-day meeting features a comprehensive agenda. Participants will receive updates on collaborations with international partners, including the European Union, the US Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA/US DoE), the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), the Heads of the European Radiological Protection Competent Authorities (HERCA), the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), and the GNSSN. Discussions will also cover IAEA regional assistance priorities, the progress of FNRBA’s thematic working groups, further analysis of regional needs, and the ongoing implementation of the forum’s strategic plan.

As part of the Moroccan-American military cooperation in disaster management, an exercise to counter Weapons of Mass Destruction (C-WMD) took place on Tuesday at the military port of Agadir.

This training occurred during the combined Moroccan-American exercise “African Lion 2025,” held in accordance with the High Instructions of His Majesty the King, Supreme Commander and Chief of General Staff of the Royal Armed Forces.

It focuses primarily on conducting reconnaissance operations, neutralizing improvised Weapons of Mass Destruction, radiological dispersal devices, and CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear) decontamination.

This exercise aims to further enhance the operational and tactical capabilities of the CBRN, Flood Rescue (Diving), and EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) companies of the FAR’s Rescue and Salvage Unit (USS) to face a crisis situation involving radiological, chemical, and explosive risks.

Through a scenario utilizing the personnel and material resources of the CBRN, Flood Rescue, and EOD companies of the FAR’s Rescue and Salvage Unit, this exercise was designed to practice ship decontamination techniques and develop procedures for countering Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

Focused on an interconnected scenario very close to reality, the theme of the C-WMD exercise will enable the CBRN, Flood Rescue, and EOD companies of the FAR’s Rescue and Salvage Unit to intervene effectively to manage an incident involving chemical, radiological, and explosive agents.

The scenario of this exercise, which took place in the presence notably of Major General Mohammed Benouali, South Zone Chief of Staff, and Brigadier General Daniel Cederman, Deputy Commanding General-Reserve- of the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-Africa), consists of an intervention to secure the port of Agadir upon the arrival of a suspicious vessel carrying WMD materials.

Indeed, Moroccan and Ghanaian special forces launched a boarding operation on the vessel using maritime assault techniques before taking full control of the ship and securing the area.

Subsequently, the special forces teams undertook a meticulous inspection of the vessel which revealed the presence of materials and equipment associated with weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

Clandestine laboratories and containers of chemical agents were discovered in various compartments of the ship.

The CBRN and EOD teams of the USS will be deployed to assess and neutralize the threats, using a drone and specialized equipment.

In parallel, USS divers, assisted by specialized divers from the Royal Navy, inspected the hull to detect any potential explosive devices, while experts from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) supervised the technical reconnaissance and recommended specific measures for managing the chemical agents.

Finally, the USS CBRN team carried out decontamination, triage, medical care operations, as well as air and ground evacuation of victims to receive necessary care.

Launched on the 12th of this month, the “African Lion 2025” Exercise runs until May 23rd, in the regions of Agadir, Tan-Tan, Tiznit, Kenitra, Benguerir, and Tifnit.

It aims to strengthen military cooperation between Morocco and the United States, develop interoperability, and enhance intervention capabilities in a multinational context, thus contributing to the promotion of security, peace, and stability in the region.

The 21st edition of the “African Lion” Exercise also includes parallel humanitarian and social actions.

Source: article written by L’Opinion with MAP, 20 March 2025.

Vienna – Underscoring Morocco’s prominent role in global nuclear safety and security, the Austrian capital recently hosted the 22nd Steering Committee meeting of the Global Nuclear Safety and Security Network (GNSSN). Held from April 28th to 30th, 2025, under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the gathering marked a pivotal moment for evaluating the network’s accomplishments and defining its future trajectory.

Representing the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR) at this significant international forum was Mr. Reda NOUR, the Secretary General of AMSSNuR. He attended on behalf of Mr. Saïd MOULINE, Director General of AMSSNuR and current President of the GNSSN. The meeting served as a strategic platform to review the substantial progress made by the network, placing particular emphasis on capacity-building initiatives, through specialized training programs designed to empower Member States in developing and strengthening their national nuclear safety and security infrastructures.

The discussions extended beyond the network’s overall achievements to assess the advancements made by its constituent regional networks. This focus aimed to foster enhanced interregional cooperation and ensure a more effective synchronization of international efforts within this critical field.

A rigorous review of the GNSSN’s 2025-2026 action plan was also undertaken during the meeting. The objective was to guarantee that the network’s strategies remain optimally aligned with the emerging and rapidly evolving challenges in nuclear safety and security. This forward-looking approach seeks to adapt to the constantly changing global landscape and bolster the resilience of national systems.

Key conclusions from the meeting underscored the importance of consolidating collaboration among Member States. Promoting the exchange of knowledge and best practices was highlighted as essential for strengthening national nuclear regulatory systems. Furthermore, the meeting emphasized the necessity of intensifying efforts to support states in reinforcing their domestic legal and regulatory frameworks. This involves organizing targeted training workshops and reviewing existing legislative measures to ensure the safe, secure, and sustainable management of diverse nuclear technologies.

In essence, the Vienna meeting reaffirmed the GNSSN’s vital role as a cornerstone of international cooperation in nuclear safety and security. The network stands as a central hub for connecting expertise, facilitating knowledge sharing among Member States, and diligently working towards the responsible and secure utilization of nuclear technologies across the globe.

Looking ahead, the next meeting of the GNSSN Steering Committee is scheduled to take place in the final quarter of 2025.

Amman, April 29, 2025

– On the sidelines of the high-level international workshop on nuclear security, held from April 28 to 30 in Amman, Jordan, Mr. Saïd Mouline, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR), called for coordinated national and regional strategies to confront the rapidly evolving threats posed by nuclear and radiological risks in an increasingly technology-driven world.

In his address, Mr. Saïd Mouline highlighted the emergence of major challenges, including those related to artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the rapid expansion of civil nuclear programs—particularly in the MENA region. He emphasized the need for enhanced regional cooperation, grounded in open dialogue, mutual trust, and support for the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) programs.

Mr. Saïd Mouline underscored Morocco’s ongoing efforts, through AMSSNuR, to establish a robust regulatory infrastructure, supported by an Integrated Nuclear Security Support Plan (INSSP) developed in collaboration with the IAEA. This approach is driven by a strategic vision focused on capacity building and the sustainability of national expertise.

He reaffirmed Morocco’s strong commitment to global nuclear security, noting key milestones such as AMSSNuR’s designation by the IAEA as the first Regional Centre for nuclear security infrastructure in Africa, Morocco’s active participation in the Nuclear Security Summits, and the organization of the 3rd International Conference of Regulators in 2019.

Mr. Saïd Mouline concluded by commending the organization of this workshop—a joint effort by the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission, the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), and the IAEA—which he described as a strategic platform for anticipating emerging threats and enhancing collective resilience across MENA countries.

Rabat, April 4, 2025 – Mr. Saïd Mouline, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR), accompanied by the Secretary General and department directors, welcomed a French delegation led by Mr. Hervé Morin, President of the Normandy Region, during an official visit to Morocco. The delegation also included Presidents of universities and engineering schools.

This meeting provided a significant opportunity for both parties to explore avenues for collaboration in the field of training, particularly in radiological protection, skill development, and capacity-building for professionals in the nuclear and radiological sectors.

Mr. Saïd Mouline, after highlighting the excellence of bilateral relations between Morocco and France, presented the core missions of AMSSNuR, emphasizing its role as the national regulator and its strategy aimed at strengthening Morocco’s nuclear and radiological safety and security framework. He highlighted ongoing efforts in training, especially through the establishment of the African Regulator School in partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), aimed at training future African regulators.

In turn, the French delegation presented a wide array of training opportunities, including radiological protection programs, trainer development courses, online training modules, and academic pathways. Mr. Hervé Morin praised the distinctive and robust nature of Morocco-France relations, underscoring that Morocco is a historic partner with a dynamic development trajectory. He expressed his satisfaction with the shared commitment to establishing concrete, sustainable, and mutually beneficial cooperation.

The meeting concluded with a joint commitment to deepen this collaboration, defining concrete steps for the implementation of joint projects aimed at strengthening expertise in nuclear and radiological fields.

Rabat, February 26, 2025 – The Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR) hosted a working meeting on February 25 and 26, 2025, with officials from the National Institute for Radioelements (IRE-Lab) of Belgium. This meeting is part of Task 3 of Technical Cooperation Project No. 440-866, titled “Support to AMSSNuR for the Establishment of a Radiological Monitoring System for the Moroccan Territory.”

Co-financed by the European Commission (EC) and conducted in partnership with IRE-Lab, this cooperation project is structured around three key areas. Task 3 specifically aims to provide AMSSNuR with the necessary support to establish a national off-line radiological environmental monitoring program while strengthening accredited laboratories for environmental radioactivity measurement.

During the meeting, participants initiated discussions on implementing a radiological monitoring program for the Moroccan territory through sampling and laboratory analysis. In this context, high-risk areas—including mining sites, nuclear medicine centers, wastewater treatment plants, and seawater desalination stations—were identified and examined with IRE-Lab experts.

Based on the assessment carried out under Task 1 of the project, the currently available environmental radioactivity measurement resources in Morocco were reviewed. These findings will serve as the foundation for designing a periodic monitoring program aligned with international standards and best practices adopted in Belgium while considering Morocco’s national capabilities.

Furthermore, Task 3 of the project includes conducting audits of accredited radioactivity measurement laboratories, identifying areas for improvement, and organizing inter-comparison exercises. Training sessions tailored to the needs of laboratories, particularly on ISO 17025 standards, are also planned.

This working meeting marks the second activity under Task 3, following the launch meeting held on September 11 and 12, 2024, which brought together representatives from the National Center for Energy, Nuclear Science, and Technology (CNESTEN) and the National Center for Radiation Protection (CNRP). The first meeting allowed laboratories from both institutions to present their fields of expertise and their needs in environmental monitoring.

Ultimately, Task 3 of this technical cooperation project represents a strategic opportunity to strengthen collaboration between AMSSNuR and accredited environmental radioactivity measurement laboratories. By leveraging IRE-Lab’s expertise, this initiative directly contributes to protecting the public and the environment from the risks associated with ionizing radiation.

On the occasion of the 37th Regulatory Information Conference (RIC), held in Rockville, Maryland, Mr. Saïd Mouline, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR), met with Mr. David A. Wright, the newly appointed Chairman of the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (USNRC).

During this meeting, Mr. Mouline warmly congratulated Mr. Wright on his appointment before discussing ways to further strengthen cooperation between the two institutions. This collaboration, which dates back to 2017 and was reinforced with the extension of the Memorandum of Understanding in 2022, has led to significant progress in nuclear and radiological safety.

“The USNRC is a strategic partner with whom we share a common vision: a continuously strengthened and proactive approach to nuclear safety. We are convinced that this enhanced cooperation will bring real added value, not only for Morocco but also for the entire African continent.” – Saïd Mouline

The discussions particularly focused on capacity building in Africa through initiatives such as the African School of Radiological Safety for New Regulators, established in partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Mr. Mouline emphasized the importance of this initiative for the continent:

“Developing expertise in nuclear safety is essential to ensuring a safer future. Africa needs local expertise, and we are proud to contribute—alongside the USNRC and the IAEA—to training the regulators of tomorrow.”

Coinciding with the celebration of the USNRC’s 50th anniversary, AMSSNuR’s participation in this 37th edition of the RIC underscores its ongoing commitment to positioning itself as a key player in strengthening nuclear safety at both the regional and international levels.

By continuing its cooperation with the USNRC, AMSSNuR is further developing its technical and strategic capabilities to better address future challenges. The agency remains fully committed to this dynamic and firmly believes that expertise exchange and knowledge sharing are essential to ensuring a safer future and fostering globally responsible behavior.

Older Posts

The Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security and PORTNET Consolidate Their Partnership Through the Signing of an Electronic Data Interchange Contract

AMSSNuR Contributes to the European Commission Cooperation Project Aimed at Strengthening Nuclear and Radiological Safety in Africa

Towards Stronger Cooperation: AMSSNuR and NNSA (USA) Renew Their Partnership in Nuclear Security

AMSSNuR hosts the 22nd Steering Committee Meeting of the FNRBA in Rabat, strengthening African cooperation in nuclear and radiological safety and security

African Lion 2025: Weapons of Mass Destruction exercise at Agadir military port

AMSSNuR strengthens its international leadership: GNSSN sets new priorities in nuclear safety and security in Vienna

AMSSNuR Advocates for an Integrated Regional Strategy to Address Emerging Nuclear and Radiological Risks

Morocco-France Cooperation to Strengthen Nuclear and Radiological Competencies

AMSSNuR Hosts a Working Meeting with IRE-Lab to Strengthen Radiological Monitoring of Moroccan Territory

AMSSNuR and USNRC: Strengthening U.S.-Moroccan Cooperation in Nuclear and Radiological Safety

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