IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi visited Singapore last week to reaffirm support to the country and the wider region, as interest grows in Southeast Asia for nuclear power and technology.
During his trip, Mr Grossi met with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, and Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science and Technology Tan See Leng. Their conversations focused on the region's growing interest in nuclear energy, peaceful applications of nuclear technology such as in health and food security, and the importance of effective multilateralism.
Singapore is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), many of whose members are considering nuclear power.
"This visit confirmed what we are seeing worldwide: momentum is building, and ASEAN's interest in nuclear energy is real and promising," said Mr Grossi. "This stable and low-carbon option clearly has a role to play in the region's energy future."
This topic was also covered during his meeting with Singapore's president, which Mr Grossi called "an honour" and said: "Our exchange touched on shared priorities for a safer, more sustainable future."
This collaborative approach was also reflected in his meeting with the prime minister.
Productive exchange with 🇸🇬 Prime Minister @LawrenceWongST on @IAEAorg's work and growing interest in nuclear energy across ASEAN. Discussed potential of safe & secure nuclear power in Singapore's energy future and importance of highest standards. Thanks for warm welcome. pic.twitter.com/hSnS9A6v0R
— Rafael Mariano Grossi (@rafaelmgrossi) July 25, 2025
The Director General's meeting with Minister-in-charge of Energy and Science and Technology Tan See Leng focused on nuclear energy perspectives in East Asia and globally. "With technology advancing rapidly, IAEA stands ready to support countries in the safe development of nuclear," said Mr Grossi.
Mr Grossi bolstered the IAEA's ties with Singapore by signing an agreement to extend the IAEA-Singapore partnership with the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment's Grace Fu.
"We will further support through Rays of Hope, including the establishment of one of Asia's first proton therapy centres, as well as NUTEC Plastics, Atoms4Food and more," said the Director General.
The National University of Singapore's Nuclear Research and Safety Institute (SNRSI) invited Mr Grossi to deliver the S R Nathan Fellowship Lecture on the global energy landscape and renewed momentum for nuclear energy, where the Director General said he appreciated "the thoughtful questions and engagement from students in the audience".
He also visited the SNRSI and the National Environment Agency's radiological laboratories.
Visited @NUSingapore's SNRSI and @NEAsg's radiological labs in Singapore. Impressed by 🇸🇬's strong investment in nuclear science and technical capacity. These efforts will serve not only the country but also the region through training, research, and innovation. pic.twitter.com/zqgLKveDVP
— Rafael Mariano Grossi (@rafaelmgrossi) July 25, 2025
