The Principality of Monaco renews its commitment with the IAEA in the fight against cancer.

On the sidelines of the 68th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which took place in Vienna from September 16 to 20, 2024, Isabelle ROSABRUNETTO, Director General of the Department of External Relations and Cooperation, proceeded, on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, with Mr. Rafael Mariano GROSSI, Director General of the IAEA, to sign a Financing Agreement in favor of the “Rays of Hope” initiative* for the 2024-2025 period, thereby renewing the Principality Government’s commitment to the fight against cancer, one of the main non-communicable diseases globally. The Principality of Monaco has continuously supported the IAEA’s efforts to fight cancer since 2007, particularly through the “Rays of Hope” initiative since 2022. Monaco’s support aligns with the Agency’s mandate to promote the peaceful use of nuclear science and technology in favor of economic and human development, thus contributing to the achievement of SDG 3, which relates to “health and well-being for all,” and more specifically to its target 3.4: “By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.” By 2030, it is estimated that 24 million new cancer cases will be diagnosed each year, with 13 million deaths. Seventy percent of cancer deaths will occur in low- and middle-income countries. The support of the Principality of Monaco to the Agency’s actions in the fight against cancer thus contributes to providing these countries with a response to this public health issue.