22 July 2026
On July 21, an International Conference organized by the CIS Base Organization for spent nuclear fuel and radioactive waste management and decommissioning of nuclear and radiation hazardous facilities titled “Final Disposal of Radioactive Waste as a Key Element of Safety and Sustainable Development of Atomic Energy” opened at the National Nuclear Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan, that brings together participants from member states of CIS countries.
Representatives of specialized organizations, research institutions and expert communities from Kazakhstan, Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and other countries are taking part in the conference.
Program began with an introduction to the activities of the National Nuclear Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Participants visited the exhibition halls of the enterprise and of the STS site, and Experimental Field site, where they were briefed on the history of nuclear testing and the results of extensive research and remediation work carried out at the former test site.
In the afternoon, the conference held its official opening ceremony, followed by a plenary session addressing the challenges facing states in developing national radioactive waste management systems.
During the session, experts discussed IAEA international safety standards, global experience in the final disposal of radioactive waste, and national radioactive waste management programs in CIS member states.
The conference is continuing its work. Further – expert discussions, technical site visits and closing remarks to follow.