PARIS: A summit aimed at expanding the role of civilian nuclear power is set to open in Paris on Tuesday, as growing geopolitical tensions and the ongoing conflict involving Iran highlight the risks associated with heavy dependence on fossil fuels.
Representatives from nearly 40 countries and international organisations are expected to attend the meeting, which will be inaugurated by Emmanuel Macron, reports AFP.
Major global powers, including the United States and China, will participate in the gathering. However, Russia—another major nuclear power—will not attend due to its ongoing war in Ukraine.
Interest in nuclear energy had declined sharply following the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan, which revived global fears previously triggered by the 1986 Chornobyl catastrophe. Both incidents raised widespread concerns about the safety of nuclear power generation.
In recent years, however, nuclear energy has regained attention as countries increasingly focus on energy security and the transition to cleaner energy sources to combat climate change.
According to the World Nuclear Association, nuclear power currently provides around nine percent of global electricity, with approximately 440 nuclear reactors operating across about 30 countries.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which is co-sponsoring the conference alongside the International Energy Agency (IEA), has projected that global nuclear power generation could double by 2050.
The agency noted that China is currently constructing 29 additional reactors, which will add to the 57 reactors already operating in the country.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said on Monday that about 40 countries have either begun building nuclear reactors or are exploring plans to develop them.
Meanwhile, IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said the expansion of nuclear power could play an important role in strengthening Europe’s energy independence.
He added that European nations should increase investment in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, while also “making a strong comeback for nuclear power.”
