With the participation of specialists, authorities, and representatives from Latin America, the Caribbean, and partner countries, the regional meeting of theFIRST Program focused on small modular reactors (SMR) concluded in Argentina, one of the most relevant technologies in the new global energy agenda.
The event, organized jointly by the National Atomic Energy Commission (CNEA) and the U.S. Department of State, allowed for the exchange of experiences and the analysis of the main challenges and opportunities related to the development of this type of reactor.
The closing of the meeting was led by the Secretary of Nuclear Affairs, Federico Ramos Napoli; the president of CNEA, Martín Porro; the U.S. Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and Nonproliferation, Christopher T. Yeaw; and the Japanese expert Kiyonobu Yamashita.
The meeting.
During the final day, participants agreed on the importance of strengthening international cooperation to advance the safe and efficient incorporation of nuclear technologies.
As part of the activities, the delegations visited the Atucha Nuclear Complex, operated by Nucleoeléctrica Argentina, and participated in technical panels on the development of SMR, the supply chain, and regional collaboration opportunities.
The holding of the meeting in the country resulted in a concrete strengthening of technical exchange and joint work among nations, improving regional capabilities in a strategic sector for the planet's energy future.
The choice of Argentina as the host of the FIRST Program was not coincidental. The event is part of a broader strategy by the government of Javier Milei aimed at regaining the prominence of the nuclear sector and positioning the country as a relevant actor on the international stage.
The message from Federico Napoli.
In this context, the Secretariat of Nuclear Affairs, led by Federico Napoli, emphasized that small modular reactors represent a key opportunity for the next stage of sector development.
These are more flexible technologies, with lower implementation costs and higher safety standards, making them an attractive alternative for expanding energy generation.
Global interest in this type of solution is growing in a context where nuclear energy is regaining centrality as a tool to ensure supply, reduce emissions, and support industrial development.
Argentina, with over 70 years of experience in the nuclear field, seeks to capitalize on that accumulated experience to integrate into this new phase. Existing infrastructure, specialized human capital, and a clear regulatory framework are key factors to attract investments and develop new projects.
The government is working to create conditions of stability and predictability, aiming to boost strategic sectors with high added value. In this line, the nuclear industry positions itself as one of the pillars to foster innovation, the creation of skilled jobs, and the economic growth of the country.
The closing of the FIRST Program meeting in Buenos Aires thus marks a new step in the libertarian administration's strategy for international insertion and reinforces the intention to consolidate Argentina as a regional leader in the development of advanced nuclear technologies.
