Vietnam hopes the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will continue to provide its short- and long-term technical assistance to develop Vietnam’s atomic energy for peaceful purposes. Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Thien Nhan made the proposal while receiving Kwaku Aning, IAEA Deputy General Director and Head of the Department of Technical Cooperation, in Hanoi on August 20. Vietnam wants the IAEA to support the country in speeding up five technical assistance cooperation projects with the atomic energy governing body, especially those on nuclear power, Nhan told his guest. He proposed that the IAEA support eight more similar projects in the 2014-2015 and send its experts to train Vietnamese engineers in the field. The Deputy PM also said Vietnam is seeking IAEA support in establishing a centre for nuclear science and technology, including building a new multipurpose research reactor. Kwaku Aning acknowledged Nhan’s proposals, and said following the General Director’s official visit to Hanoi in September 2011, the IAEA selected Vietnam an exemplary country to receive its technical assistance for developing nuclear power plants in the coming years. During the past decade, the IAEA has provided US$7.2 million in technical assistance to help upgrade the existing Da Lat reactor and train its personnel to create human resources for future nuclear power plants. The UN body has also assisted Vietnam with other nuclear projects in agriculture, industry, health care, and application of radiation technology. Three Deputy General Directors have visited Vietnam since the beginning of this year. VietNamNet/VOV