WASHINGTON, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration has helped install a nuclear security monitor in a port on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus.

"The Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration -- NNSA -- in cooperation with the Cypriot Customs Service, commissioned a newly upgraded portal monitor at Limassol seaport in Cyprus," the NNSA, an agency of the U.S. Department of Energy, said in a statement Dec. 12.

"The monitor will help detect the illicit smuggling of nuclear and radiological materials in cargo containers passing through the port," the NNSA said.

"Cyprus and the United States are working closely together to stop the smuggling of nuclear and radiological materials. This partnership plays a critical role in the global fight against illicit trafficking and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction," said Deputy Administrator for Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation William Tobey.

"A joint ceremony was held with Cypriot customs and the U.S. Embassy (on Dec. 12) to highlight the installation and operation of the radiation detection equipment provided by NNSA. The ceremony recognized the ongoing cooperation between the United States and Cyprus to prevent the trafficking of nuclear and radioactive materials," the NNSA said.