A. M. 
El Salvador, represented by ESCO’s Director General, Karla de Palma, signed the National Program Framework 2024-2029 with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) during the International Conference on Nuclear Science and Technology in Vienna, Austria. This agreement establishes a key strategy for the peaceful use of nuclear energy in favor of the country’s sustainable development.
The agreement addresses priority areas such as health, nutrition, agriculture, environment, energy, nuclear safety and radiation protection. De Palma emphasized that this framework represents a fundamental step towards implementing innovative solutions to improve the quality of life in El Salvador, guaranteeing a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Among the main benefits will be access to advanced health technologies, such as more accurate medical diagnostics and specialized treatments, as well as innovation in sustainable agricultural production to ensure food security and optimize natural resources.
The partnership will also enable better management of drinking water, a crucial resource in a country with water challenges, and will promote the generation of cleaner energy, in line with global climate change mitigation goals.
During his participation in the event, de Palma was part of the panel “ARCAL 40 years: Transforming the Region with Nuclear Science and Technology” and highlighted the impact of atomic energy in improving the quality of life of citizens. She also participated in “Women Leaders in the Nuclear Sector”, highlighting the importance of female leadership in this field.
Finally, de Palma and Ambassador Julia Villatoro learned about initiatives such as “Rays of Hope”, which promotes the use of nuclear technologies to treat diseases and ensure food security, reaffirming El Salvador’s commitment to sustainable development and international cooperation.
