AMMAN — His Royal Highness Prince Hassan bin Talal and Co-Chair and CEO of the Nuclear Threat Initiative Ernest J. Moniz welcomed leaders in nuclear security and energy from over a dozen countries across the Middle East and North Africa who have convened to advance nuclear security cooperation across the region.
In opening remarks, His Royal Highness Prince Hassan urged a focus on collective action and strengthening cross-border cooperation to build trust and partnership, rather than conflict and division, to focus on constructive and meaningful dialogue to enhance global and regional nuclear security, “the most important issue of our time.”
Underscoring the need for collective action, International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi remarked on the occasion, “Nuclear security knows no borders. Regional cooperation such as this workshop is vital.”
Moniz, who served as U.S. Secretary of Energy from 2013-2017, highlighted the value of regional leadership and the potential for practical collaboration in his opening remarks, saying, “In this new era of rapidly evolving risks, gatherings like this are critical for advancing nuclear security. I hope this conference is modeled in other regions, particularly those that are facing consequential decisions about management of nuclear facilities, integration of artificial intelligence, and complexities associated with evolving geopolitical dynamics.”
Hosted by the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission and the Nuclear Threat Initiative, the three-day workshop brings together senior officials, technical experts, and regional representatives to address emerging nuclear security challenges amid growing interest in nuclear energy and technologies like artificial intelligence. As host, Jordan is playing a key role in advancing regional dialogue, strengthening legal and institutional frameworks, and promoting cross-border cooperation. The event provides a platform to exchange expertise, build connections, and reaffirm the importance of sustained engagement on nuclear security across the region.
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