China Attends IAEA Meeting on the Implementation of the Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources

From July 6 to July 10, 2026, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) convened the seventh meeting on the implementation of the *Code of Conduct on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources* (hereinafter referred to as the "Code") and its supplementary guidance in Vienna, Austria. A delegation led by a senior official from the Department of Radiation Source Safety Regulation of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment attended the meeting, accompanied by representatives from the Center for Nuclear and Radiation Safety.

The meeting aimed to facilitate effective exchange among nations, identify provisions of the Code that have been successfully implemented, and gain insight into the successful experiences, existing gaps, and challenges faced by Member States during implementation. The IAEA Director General delivered a video address at the opening ceremony. Through keynote speeches, side events, and breakout sessions, the IAEA, invited experts, and participants exchanged regulatory experiences regarding the implementation of the Code and its two supplementary guidance documents, lessons learned from typical radiation accidents, and technologies for replacing radioactive sources.

A senior official from the Department of Radiation Source Safety Regulation delivered a keynote speech titled "Foundational Development of China's Regulation on the Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources," while other delegation members presented reports on "China's Safety and Security Culture for Radioactive Sources" and "Management of Disused Radioactive Sources in China." These presentations showcased the progress my country has made in making the regulation of radioactive sources more law-based, standardized, and information-driven, earning high praise from the IAEA assessment team and full recognition from all participating parties.

Set against the backdrop of the rapid development of the nuclear technology application industry and the expanding scope of radioactive source applications, the conference focused on in-depth discussions regarding the opportunities and challenges in the regulation of radioactive source safety and security, thereby fostering the exchange of regulatory experiences among participating countries. The active participation and in-depth exchanges by the Chinese delegation contributed a "Chinese model" to international radiation safety regulation and further enhanced my country's international influence in this field.