Croatia and Canada have signed a memorandum of understanding in Toronto on intensifying cooperation in the field of civilian use of nuclear energy, confirming their joint commitment to strengthening energy security, diversifying energy sources and developing sustainable and reliable energy solutions.
As part of the official visit of Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković to Canada, a memorandum was signed establishing a framework for closer cooperation in the field of civilian nuclear energy, including the exchange of knowledge and experience, regulatory cooperation, human resource development, research and innovation, and exploring the potential application of advanced nuclear technologies.
Minister of Economy Ante Šušnjar was part of the delegation and attended the event in Toronto.
The memorandum is part of activities for strengthening bilateral economic, energy and institutional cooperation, his ministry announced. The document was signed by Ambassador of Croatia to Canada Vice Skračić and Ambassador of Canada to Croatia Jessica Blitt.
Exchange of experiences on policy, regulations
Canada is one of the leading countries in civilian nuclear energy, with long-standing experience in the development and safe use of nuclear technologies, the statement reads. Croatia, as a co-owner of the Krško nuclear power plant in Slovenia and a country that actively considers future energy needs in the context of decarbonization and energy transition, recognizes the importance of cooperation with international partners who possess top-tier knowledge and experience in this field, the ministry added.
Officials expressed readiness to exchange experiences related to policy and the regulatory framework. Special emphasis is on issues of nuclear security and safety and the management of nuclear fuel and radioactive waste.
Making decisions on basis of facts, knowledge, best international experiences
The two countries will also encourage cooperation in the development of advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), as well as in the field of research, development, and innovation, according to the announcement. An important segment of the memorandum relates to education, training and the development of professional capacities needed for the further development of the sector.
Minister Ante Šušnjar emphasized that the new document is an important step in strengthening strategic cooperation between Croatia and Canada in energy. “In a time of major changes in global energy markets, partnerships with countries that possess top-tier knowledge and experience represent an investment in the long-term resilience and security of the Republic of Croatia. Cooperation with Canada will further strengthen our institutions and professional capacities, and enable us to make decisions about future energy options based on facts, knowledge, and the best international experiences,” he stated.
The Ministry of Economy emphasized that the memorandum does not represent an obligation to make individual investment decisions, but that it rather establishes a platform for the exchange of expert knowledge and the strengthening of institutional cooperation between Croatia and Canada in the field of civilian nuclear energy.
