Point of view of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission on Europe

The subject matter of this issue of Controle is of considerable interest to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and I am honored to present my views alongside those of many of my European colleagues. The NRC has enjoyed close cooperative relationships with its regulatory partners in Europe for decades, and has seen that cooperation expand as the European regulatory landscape has changed. Together, we have long realized the importance of collaboration on nuclear and radiation safety. We have recognized the benefits that can be attained from open and frank discussions on good practices, lessons learned, and experiences that have informed our national programs, and we have utilized this cooperation to leverage our resources as interest in nuclear power grows worldwide. The NRC has watched with interest as the European Union has undertaken efforts to harmonize its nuclear safety and radiation protection practices, culminating in the issuance of the Nuclear Safety Directive. (author)