On November 29, 2021, a meeting was held between the Customs Service under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and the National Nuclear Security Administration of the US Department of Energy (DOE/NNSA), Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD), and the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Safety & Security Agency (CBRN SSA).
 

The meeting was opened by the representative of the Customs Service under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan. He expressed appreciation for the successful implementation of the project on the installation of radiation portal monitors (RMP) at checkpoints of the Republic of Tajikistan, one of the successful steps to prevent illegal trafficking of nuclear and radioactive materials, including WMD. Based on the current situation in Afghanistan, he suggested accelerating the installation of other RMP and checking the deployment for further effective use. 

Appreciation was expressed also to the CBRN Safety and Security Agency for their efforts and continued support in the implementation of these projects.

Then, the floor was given to the representative of the National Nuclear Security Administration of the US Department of Energy. He emphasized further plans regarding the installation of new RPM at the airport of Khujand, the “Sarazm” checkpoint in Panjakent, and the “Gulistan” checkpoint in Isfara according to the Action Plan until July 2022. 

He also noted that despite the current situation related to the pandemic this year, a series of training courses were held for inspectors working at checkpoints of the Republic of Tajikistan. 

The meeting also considered various issues for conducting training for Customs officers, training and improving the capacity of employees, developing an action plan (SOP) during the detection of nuclear and radioactive materials.

It was noted that the new project covers the installation of radiation portal monitors, and also provides the essential supplies for officers working at the border.

At the conclusion of the meeting, it was proposed that the Customs Service provide a list of requirements for consideration by the National Nuclear Security Administration of the US Department of Energy (DOE/NNSA).