Agadir – Morocco organized a high-level session during the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) conference “Computer Security in the Nuclear World: Securing the Future” in Vienna.
The session focused on emerging cybersecurity and artificial intelligence threats in the nuclear sector. It was dedicated to presenting Morocco’s approach to nuclear cybersecurity and its regulatory framework for strengthening computer security capacities within nuclear and radiological activities.
The event was organized by the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR), highlighting the country’s efforts to adapt its governance and technical systems to rapidly evolving digital risks, particularly those linked to artificial intelligence and the increasing digitalization of critical infrastructure.
The Moroccan delegation was led by Said Mouline, Director General of AMSSNuR, accompanied by Secretary General Reda Nour. The session was chaired by Morocco’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna, Azzeddine Farhane.
The event brought together senior international officials and experts in nuclear security and cybersecurity, including the Belgian Ambassador to Vienna Caroline Vermeulen, US Chargé d’Affaires to the IAEA Howard Solomon, and IAEA Deputy Director General Karine Herviou.
In his remarks, Farhane outlined a set of key principles guiding Morocco’s approach to nuclear security in the current global environment.
He stressed that nuclear security can no longer be limited to physical protection alone, but must now fully integrate cybersecurity, resilient digital infrastructure, and preparedness for the impact of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
According to him, these elements have become essential components of a robust and modern nuclear security framework.
Farhane also underlined that nuclear security systems must continuously evolve to respond to shifting risks, vulnerabilities, and rapid technological transformation.
He noted that emerging technologies, particularly AI, are creating both new opportunities and security vulnerabilities that require anticipation and forward-looking preparedness.
He further pointed to the current international context, marked by geopolitical tensions, hybrid threats, terrorism risks, and increasing digitalization, as making such discussions particularly urgent.
Farhane also noted that Morocco has integrated cybersecurity and information security into its national nuclear security regime and was among the early signatories of INFCIRC/908, which addresses internal threats within the international nuclear security framework.
He stressed that no country can address these challenges alone, calling for sustained international cooperation, political commitment, and collective action to ensure a resilient global nuclear security system.
“In a global context marked by rapid technological transformation and evolving hybrid threats, only through sustained cooperation, strong political commitment, and effective implementation of international instruments can we collectively build a more resilient global nuclear security regime,” he concluded.
