More than 250 Vietnamese scientists from 40 scientific, technological, educational and training organisations, 20 scientists and managers from atomic energy groups of Russia, Japan, Bulgaria, Germany, France and the US, attended the event, along with representatives from relevant ministries and sectors.

The conference aimed to announce the results of scientific and technological studies and projects in Vietnam in the 2009-2011 period, and devise targets and orientations for 2011-2013.

In his speech, Assistant Professor Vuong Huu Tuan, the VAIE Head, said Vietnam has significantly progressed in studying, developing and applying atomic energy.

The National Assembly (NA) approved the nuclear power plant project in Ninh Thuan in October 2009.

In addition, a master plan for developing atomic energy application for peace purposes through to 2020, a plan for radiant application in agriculture, industry, natural resources and the environment, a zoning plan for radioactive waste disposal sites and a plan for human resources development in atomic energy were also adopted the Prime Minister in 2010.

The law-regulated documents on nuclear energy development issued two years ago have provided a firm foundation for ministries, sectors, localities, and businesses to invest and promote atomic energy application in socio- economic development.

During the two-day conference, participants discussed the Ninh Thuan nuclear power plant project, legal foundations for developing nuclear power plants in Vietnam and the construction of a new research centre of VAIE.

Challenges to the building of atomic reactors of the third generation in developing countries and some other geological issues related to nuclear power plants were also tabled for discussion.