ALGIERS – Algerian Minister of State, Minister of Energy, Mines, and Renewable Energies, Mohamed Arkab, held a meeting on Saturday with the President of the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), Wang Yongge, during which they reviewed the ongoing cooperation between the Commissariat for Atomic Energy (COMENA) and the China National Nuclear Corporation, with a particular focus on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, its medical applications, and prospects for future development, the Algerian ministry said in a statement.
Discussions also centered on assessing the progress of the previously established specialized working group tasked with preparing and launching the project for the production of radioactive isotopes in Algeria. This project holds strategic importance in supporting the national healthcare sector, particularly in the areas of diagnosis and radiation therapy, with a special emphasis on cancer treatment, the source said.
In this regard, the meeting explored practical scenarios for local production of radioactive isotopes, emphasizing the importance of integrating national expertise and strengthening research and development. These efforts are key to ensuring national health security and unlocking promising opportunities for exporting these products to regional and international markets, the statement added.
The two sides also discussed opportunities to expand cooperation in other areas, particularly in knowledge exchange, training, technology transfer, and specialized education, to guarantee access to the latest scientific and technological advancements in this industry.
For his part, Wang Yongge expressed the China National Nuclear Corporation’s full readiness to support Algeria in implementing the radioactive isotope production project. Moreover, he praised the capabilities available in Algeria, including its infrastructure and qualified human resources, as well as the strong political will to advance the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
In turn, Minister Arkab praised the existing cooperation with the Chinese side, expressing satisfaction with the progress made on this strategic project. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of intensifying efforts to accelerate the implementation of the project, given its direct impact on improving national healthcare services and supporting scientific and economic development in the country.
