Syria discusses low-enriched fuel for MNSR reactor in Vienna
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Syria’s Atomic Energy Commission participated in technical meetings at the headquarters of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna to discuss the replacement of highly enriched fuel used in the country’s Miniature Neutron Source Reactor (MNSR) with low-enriched fuel.
The week-long meetings brought together experts from the United States, Canada, and several other countries to examine the technical requirements and procedures needed to implement the fuel conversion project.
Mudar al-Ogla, head of the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission, said the discussions focused on the technical aspects of replacing the reactor’s current fuel. He noted that the move is intended to support the reactor’s scientific research activities and peaceful applications, contributing to the development of scientific work at the facility.
Al-Ogla said the project reflects Syria’s commitment to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and international nuclear safety and security standards. He added that the initiative would also provide opportunities to train and qualify young national cadres in cooperation with the IAEA.
The MNSR reactor, acquired by Syria in the 1990s, is a low-power research reactor that is subject to regular monitoring and inspection procedures conducted by the IAEA.