Abu dhabi: H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, has received Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). During their meeting, the two officials addressed the repercussions of the unprovoked terrorist attacks carried out by Iran against civilian sites and facilities in the UAE using missiles and drones, the threat these attacks pose to regional security and stability, and their implications for international maritime navigation, energy supplies, and the global economy.

According to Emirates News Agency, the discussions also covered the terrorist drone attacks launched from Iraqi territory against the UAE, including an attack targeting the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in the Al Dhafra region. The attack struck an electricity generator located outside the plant's inner perimeter, with no casualties reported and no impact on radiation safety levels. H.H. Sheikh Abdullah reiterated his condemnation of this terrorist attack, describing it as a violation of international law. He emphasized the importance of protecting civilian facilities and critical infrastructure and adhering to the rules and principles of international law.

The meeting reviewed the longstanding cooperation between the UAE and the IAEA, which has spanned several decades. The officials explored ways to further strengthen collaboration across various fields in support of the peaceful use of nuclear energy in accordance with international standards of safety, security, and non-proliferation. H.H. Sheikh Abdullah affirmed the UAE's commitment to enhancing its cooperation with the IAEA and supporting its role in advancing nuclear safety and security at both regional and international levels.

Rafael Grossi praised the cooperation between the UAE and the IAEA and the UAE's commitment to transparency, nuclear safety, and security. He underscored the importance of protecting civilian nuclear facilities from threats to safeguard international security and stability. The meeting was attended by Abdullah Ahmed Balalaa, Assistant Foreign Minister for Energy and Sustainability Affairs, and Mohamed Ibrahim Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) and its Group of Companies.