Bangladesh has backed the expansion of peaceful nuclear technology, including small modular reactors and floating nuclear power plants, as the country seeks to strengthen energy security and respond to climate change.
Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam made the case for greater international cooperation on advanced nuclear technologies at the ministerial launch of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications at Sea (ATLAS) initiative in Washington.
The two-day event, being held on 26 and 27 August, brings together ministers, regulators, policymakers and industry leaders to examine the potential use of nuclear technology in maritime transport and offshore energy. The US Department of Energy said the initiative is intended to help address legal, regulatory and technical challenges surrounding the deployment of civil nuclear technology at sea.
Addressing delegates, Mr Anam said Bangladesh was committed to advancing the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear energy, arguing that it could help tackle the climate crisis, rising energy demand and concerns over energy security.
He highlighted the potential of advanced nuclear technologies and small modular reactors (SMRs) to provide reliable, low-carbon electricity while supporting economic development and improving living standards.
For Bangladesh, he said, the issue was particularly pressing because of its high population density and limited domestic energy resources. Diversifying the country’s energy mix and expanding clean energy would therefore be essential to meeting future demand while limiting the impact of climate change.
The minister also pointed to Bangladesh’s emerging nuclear power programme, describing the physical start-up of Unit 1 of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant as a major milestone in the country’s development of civilian nuclear energy.
Rooppur, Bangladesh’s first nuclear power station, is intended to provide a major new source of electricity as the country seeks to reduce its reliance on conventional fuels and strengthen the resilience of its energy system.
Mr Anam said Bangladesh also recognised that nuclear development brought significant responsibilities, stressing the need for the highest standards of nuclear safety, security and international safeguards.
He called for closer international cooperation to support the safe and timely development of advanced SMRs, including floating nuclear power plants. Such cooperation, he said, should cover technology, regulation, safety standards and the training of skilled personnel.
The ATLAS initiative is designed to examine the potential for nuclear technology in areas including civilian nuclear-powered ships and floating nuclear power plants.
The IAEA has said SMRs could offer high energy density and long operating periods, potentially reducing the need for frequent refuelling in maritime applications. Floating reactors could also provide electricity to remote and coastal communities and support industries such as desalination.
The Washington meeting is being attended by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, alongside ministers, senior officials, regulators, international organisations, nuclear and shipping industry representatives and technical experts.
Representatives from 19 countries, including Bangladesh, the United States, Britain, France, the Netherlands, Norway, Brazil, Kenya, China, Russia and South Korea, are taking part in the ministerial event and associated discussions.
The US government has described ATLAS as an effort to establish an international framework for the safe and secure deployment of civil nuclear technologies at sea, with particular emphasis on safety, security and non-proliferation.
Mr Anam said Bangladesh wanted to work with the IAEA and international partners to explore opportunities arising from the emerging civil nuclear maritime sector while maintaining strict safety and safeguards requirements.
He said international cooperation, knowledge-sharing and responsible deployment of nuclear technology could contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for coming generations.