The Canadian Nuclear Association and Italian Nuclear Association Announce Intent to Develop Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation in Nuclear Energy

The Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA) and the Italian Nuclear Association (Associazione Italiana Nucleare, AIN) have announced their intent to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance collaboration in advancing clean energy innovation, energy security, and climate change mitigation. 

The announcement  took place during the World Nuclear Exhibition (WNE) in Paris, the world’s leading civil nuclear event, where both associations will engage with global partners to promote international cooperation in nuclear energy.

The initiative reflects the strong and enduring relationship between Canada and Italy, built on shared G7 values, deep scientific ties, and mutual commitment to sustainability and technological excellence. This relationship was confirmed during the recent meeting of the Ministers of Energy and Environment in Toronto. During this meeting  the Italian Minister Pichetto-Fratin and the Canadian Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Tim Hodgson have agreed to strengthen the collaboration already in place on nuclear energy.

“The CNA is honoured to strengthen our engagement with Italy’s nuclear community,” said George Christidis, President and CEO of the Canadian Nuclear Association. “Canada’s nuclear industry, rooted in world-class safety, regulatory excellence, and based on its CANDU technology supply chain, continues to demonstrate leadership in delivering reliable, low-carbon power, medical isotopes, and innovation across the full nuclear value chain. Partnering with Italy, with its remarkable legacy in nuclear research, design, and engineering, offers exciting potential to shape the future of clean energy together.”

The proposed MOU will establish a framework for cooperation in several strategic areas, including small modular reactors, and will cover:

• Regulatory and Policy Collaboration – promoting the exchange of experience in effective regulation, governance, and policy development.
• Financial and Market Models – exploring sustainable investment frameworks, financing tools, and market mechanisms to support new nuclear deployment.
• Stakeholder and Public Engagement – sharing strategies for transparent communication and building societal trust in nuclear technologies.
• Education, Training and R&D – sharing information on strategies to attract, educate, and train the nuclear workforce.
• Joint Research and Advocacy – supporting bilateral participation in innovation networks, advanced reactor development, and international forums.
• Supply chain development and enhancement between the two countries and beyond.

“This collaboration reflects Italy’s long-standing tradition of scientific excellence and its renewed focus on the role of nuclear energy in achieving climate  goals and security of energy supply,” said President of the Associazione Italiana Nucleare, Ing. Stefano Monti.“ “Italy’s historical contributions to nuclear research, engineering, and supply chain, combined with Canada’s proven expertise and its global success as a leader in uranium mining and CANDU technology, including in Romania where Canadian and Italian partners work closely together, is a natural foundation for deeper cooperation. Together, our associations can strengthen transatlantic ties and help shape a secure, sustainable energy future, which are commonly held goals between our respective counties”. 

The MOU is expected to be formalized later this year, marking a new chapter in Canada–Italy cooperation and contributing to broader transatlantic efforts to advance clean, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions.

About the Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA)

The Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA) has been the national voice of the Canadian nuclear industry since 1960. Working with our members and all communities of interest, the CNA promotes the industry nationally and internationally, works with governments on policies affecting the sector and endeavours to increase awareness and understanding of the value nuclear technology brings to the environment, economy and daily lives of Canadians.

About the Italian Nuclear Association (AIN)

The Associazione Italiana Nucleare promotes knowledge, research, and collaboration in the field of nuclear energy and technology, supporting Italy’s engagement in international partnerships that contribute to energy security, sustainable development and innovation.

Media Contacts

Natalie Cutler, VP, Communications & Stakeholder Engagement | CNA | communications@cna.ca
Alessandro Tortorella | Associazione Italiana Nucleare | tortorella1967@gmail.com