Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have signed an agreement for the training and professional development of specialists at the new Republican Specialized Scientific-Practical Medical Center for Oncology and Radiology, which recently opened in Tashkent.

The signing took place during the 68th session of the IAEA General Conference in Vienna, Austria. At the event, Uzbekistan’s Acting Minister of Health, Asilbek Khudayarov, met with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.

During the meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction with the active development of cooperation between Uzbekistan and the IAEA. Uzbekistan currently works with the agency in several key areas, including nuclear medicine, enhancing radiological protection standards in medical exposure, upgrading radiation therapy equipment, and improving the quality of diagnostic radiology.

The agreement focuses on the training and upskilling of specialists for the new medical center in Tashkent.

Rafael Grossi emphasized that the project aims to implement modern methods of diagnosing and treating cancer, which will improve the quality and effectiveness of oncology care in the country.

"We are ready to further expand bilateral cooperation and introduce advanced technologies," said Grossi.

In August of this year, the President of Uzbekistan instructed to train staff and establish effective management at the new center, after reviewing its facilities and capabilities. The signing of this agreement plays a key role in fulfilling these tasks.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Asilbek Khudayarov invited the IAEA Director General to visit Uzbekistan to see the country’s progress in nuclear medicine firsthand.