Sochi: Head of Egypt's Nuclear Power Plants Authority (NPPA), Sherif Helmy, took part in the Young Scientists Forum in the Russian city of Sochi, an event that drew senior international experts and officials in the nuclear energy sector.According to State Information Service Egypt, Helmy used the forum's main session - themed 'From the First Russian Nuclear Plant to Global Technological Leadership' - to outline the significant progress at El Dabaa nuclear power project. He said the installation of the reactor pressure vessel for the first unit, attended remotely by the Egyptian and Russian presidents via video link, marked a historic milestone and underscored strong political backing in both countries.Helmy mentioned that Egypt's nuclear program aligns with the country's National Climate Change Strategy 2050, adding that nuclear power plays a critical role in supporting economic and industrial development. He made it clear that current priorities include completing the El Dabaa project on schedule and tr acking global advances in small modular reactors (SMRs).He praised Egyptian-Russian cooperation, describing it as a solid strategic partnership that is essential for delivering the project's goals. He stated that the NPPA is seeking deeper collaboration on peaceful nuclear applications and initiatives to promote nuclear energy across Africa.Concluding his participation, Helmy asserted that Egypt would continue to train national personnel, strengthen international cooperation, and expand scientific and technical capabilities to advance the country's sustainable energy vision.