The Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, opened yesterday in Rome the inaugural ministerial-level event of the World Fusion Energy Group (WFEG), established by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, Italian Minister of Environment and Energy Security Gilberto Pichetto Fratin and the Undersecretary of State to the Presidency of the Council of Ministers of Italy, Alfredo Mantovano, were among the high-level speakers of the event, which was also attended by the Permanent Representative of Italy to the International Organizations in Vienna, Amb. Debora Lepre. The WFEG launch brought together representatives from governments as well as public and private institutions with the goal of fostering international collaboration in fusion energy research, development and practical applications, and discussing how this technology can be harnessed to support global development, towards a sustainable and clean energy future.
The World Fusion Energy Group aims, specifically, to serve as a catalyst, focussing its work on a few aspects that are key for rapid advancements in fusion energy development, including:
- Strengthening global cooperation by establishing coordination modes and spaces for interactive dialogue and exchange, as well as for planning and structuring partnerships among all stakeholders—including governments, the private sector, academia, research institutions, regulatory bodies, and civil society.
- Enhancing the effectiveness of fusion energy research and development programs by utilising existing collaborations and facilities, while also exploring the potential for new ones.
- Jointly identifying existing technological and engineering gaps and developing international strategies to find solutions.
- Regulating fusion technology at the international level.
- Encouraging public involvement with an emphasis on engaging younger generations and promoting gender equality.
- Integrating fusion energy into the energy market.
- Incorporating fusion energy into existing energy systems, along with the necessary supporting infrastructure.
