Bolivia Advances Legislative Process for Peaceful Nuclear Technology Applications

EL ALTO, Bolivia, July 29 - The Bolivian Nuclear Energy Agency (ABEN) recently held working exchanges with relevant committees of the Plurinational Legislative Assembly to discuss the reactivation of related legislative agendas, focusing on the continued advancement of Bolivia's nuclear energy program and peaceful nuclear technology application projects.

René Soria Sausedo, Executive Director of ABEN, stated that as the primary operating entity of Bolivia's nuclear program, ABEN bears the responsibility of driving the implementation of peaceful nuclear technology application projects. These efforts require modern legal instruments to define institutional mandates, technical standards, and the fundamental legal framework for project development.

The parliamentary delegation, led by Hilderberto Márquez Maka, President of the International Policy and Migration Protection Committee, visited ABEN facilities located in District 8 of El Alto, including project facilities for radiopharmaceutical production, cyclotron operations, preclinical research, and a multipurpose irradiation center. The delegation reviewed the projects' scientific research infrastructure, specialized equipment, and operational plans.

Márquez stated that such facilities constitute national strategic projects capable of delivering tangible benefits in areas such as public health, particularly in supporting services for cancer patients. He also noted the need to address public concerns about nuclear technology through legislation and public communication, explaining the value of peaceful nuclear technology applications in fields including medicine, agriculture, industry, environmental protection, and scientific research.

Both parties also discussed the topic of Bolivia's accession to international conventions related to civil liability for nuclear damage. This matter aims to establish a clearer civil liability mechanism, provide a legal basis for potential nuclear-related incidents, and enhance public trust in Bolivia's nuclear program.

Márquez stated that the committee has decided to retrieve and continue deliberating on the bill related to civil liability for nuclear damage, in order to advance its subsequent processing and approval procedures. ABEN and the legislative body also plan to strengthen public science communication efforts, seeking more stable support for peaceful nuclear technology application projects at both the legal and public awareness levels.