Staff Reporter
VIENNA, December 5 — On September 25, 2023, in Vienna, Austria, a significant memorandum of understanding was formalized between the Rosatom State Corporation and the Algerian Commission of Atomic Energy (COMENA). This momentous event took place on the sidelines of the 67th Regular Session of the IAEA General Conference, with Boris Arseev, Division Deputy Head – International Business Director of the Rosatom State Corporation, and Abdelhamid Mellah, the COMENA commissioner, signing the memorandum.
The primary objective of this agreement is to foster long-term, efficient, and mutually beneficial cooperation in the realm of non-energy nuclear technologies, specifically focusing on healthcare and the advancement of nuclear medicine in Algeria. The collaboration aims to develop nuclear medicine centers, and the oversight of these initiatives will fall under the purview of the “Health Technologies” division of JSC “Rusatom Healthcare,” leveraging the extensive expertise of ROSATOM in healthcare.
Boris Arseev expressed ROSATOM’s comprehensive approach to healthcare tasks, encompassing an isotope complex, the production of radiopharmaceuticals, high-tech medical equipment production, the processing of medical devices and food products with ionizing radiation, and the development of nuclear medicine centers. He emphasized the pleasure in working with Algeria to implement innovative peaceful nuclear technologies, ultimately contributing to increased life expectancy and improved quality of life for citizens.
Abdelhamid Mellah underscored the significance of ROSATOM’s assistance to COMENA in the development of nuclear medicine and radiotherapy activities in Algeria. He highlighted the potential positive impact on cancer diagnostics and treatment, aligning with COMENA’s commitment to the directives of high authorities. Having ROSATOM as a prestigious partner was seen as a catalyst for success in their endeavors.
ROSATOM’s global initiatives in Nuclear Medicine Centers, exporting over 200 types of isotope products with a focus on diagnostics and disease treatment, were brought to light. The company has emerged as one of the top five global suppliers of raw isotope products used in treating various medical conditions. Offering 16 types of in-demand medical equipment and an integrated approach to medical infrastructure facilities, ROSATOM covers everything from design to equipment and personnel training.
The development of non-energy nuclear technologies, particularly in nuclear medicine and healthcare, carries significant implications for Africa. The utilization of these technologies can profoundly benefit the continent by enhancing medical diagnostics and treatment. These innovative approaches have the potential to improve healthcare outcomes, reduce mortality rates, and contribute to economic growth by fostering the development of a skilled workforce.
