The UAE has been reappointed a seat on the board of governors at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
The board is one of the main policy making authorities at the international organisation, which promotes the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
The UAE’s appointment comes a month after it became the first country in the Arab region to produce nuclear energy.
In August, it powered up Unit 1 of the Abu Dhabi-based Barakah nuclear power plant, ahead of the start of commercial operations later this year. This week, Unit 1 began operating at 50 per cent capacity.
"The election of the UAE on IAEA's Board of Governors underscores the confidence of the international community in the active role of the UAE in the international nuclear policy-making process," said Hamad Al Kaabi, permanent representative of the UAE to the IAEA.
''The move also underlines the global appreciation for the UAE's successful efforts and its responsible approach towards the development of a peaceful nuclear energy programme,'' he added.
The 35-member board carries out a number of tasks, such as making recommendations to the general conference on IAEA’s financial statements, programme and budget.
It also considers applications for membership, approves safeguarding agreements and the publication of the agency's safety standards.
And it studies ongoing verification reports such as those of Iran’s and North Korea‘s compliance.
The board typically meets five times per year.
The Emirates, which has been a member of the IAEA since 1976, will retain the seat until 2022.
It is the fourth time it has held the position, having previously sat on the board from 2016 to 2018, from 2013 to 2015 and from 2010 to 2012.
