For several decades, the Commission franco-suisse (CFS) has provided a forum for dialogue between the French and Swiss nuclear safety authorities. It facilitates the exchange of information on the safety of nuclear installations, radiation protection and emergency preparedness in the two countries During the35thmeeting, the delegations from both countries exchanged views on a number of current issues and agreed to continue and strengthen their cooperation on various topics of mutual interest. The Commission also had the opportunity to visit the Spiez Laboratory.
Discussions focused in particular on the latest developments regarding the Swiss and French nuclear power fleets, and on construction projects in France. Long-term operation and decommissioning remain topics of mutual interest.
The delegations from the two neighbouring countries also discussed risk management relating to the operation of power stations. They decided to continue exchanging experiences on the issue of water quality in cooling towers and on best practices aimed at preventing associated risks.
They also confirmed that they would continue their collaboration on crisis management and the response to nuclear emergencies. Regular exchanges in this area help to strengthen cross-border coordination between the relevant authorities.
“International cooperation is an essential element of nuclear safety. Regular exchanges with our French counterparts enable us to share our experiences, learn from one another and continually strengthen our respective approaches. In this regard, the Commission franco-suisse is a valuable instrument for cooperation and mutual trust,” said Marc Kenzelmann, Director General of the ENSI, during this35th meeting.
Visit to the Spiez Laboratory, another Swiss federal centre of expertise in the nuclear field
During this meeting, the delegations also visited the Spiez Laboratory, the Swiss federal centre of expertise for protection against nuclear, biological and chemical threats. This visit provided an opportunity to learn about its mandates and activities in the fields of analysis, detection and scientific support for the authorities.
The Swiss delegation comprised representatives from the ENSI, led by Marc Kenzelmann, Director General of ENSI, the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE), the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), as well as a representative from the cantons.
The next meeting of the Commission franco-suisse will be held in France in 2027.
