Phone : PID

DHAKA, Aug 26, 2026 (BSS) - Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam has said Bangladesh is committed to advancing the global dialogue on nuclear energy responsibly and sees significant potential in emerging nuclear technologies for maritime applications.

He made the remarks on Wednesday while delivering Bangladesh's statement at the "Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications of Sea (ATLAS) Ministerial Launch Event 2026" in Washington, D.C.

He said the world is facing growing challenges from climate change, energy insecurity and rising energy demand, making nuclear energy increasingly important for reducing emissions while ensuring a reliable energy supply.

Advanced nuclear technologies, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), could help meet future energy needs by providing reliable, low-carbon electricity and supporting economic growth, poverty reduction and improved living standards, he said.

He stressed the importance of the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear energy to address climate change, strengthen energy security and promote sustainable economic development.

Referring to the first Global Stocktake under the Paris Agreement, the minister said Bangladesh welcomes the recognition of nuclear energy and supports the initiative to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050.

He said Bangladesh, as a densely populated country with limited domestic energy resources, faces the dual challenge of meeting rising energy demand and ensuring energy security while addressing climate change. Diversifying the energy mix and expanding clean energy use are therefore crucial, he added.

Highlighting Bangladesh's nuclear power programme, the minister said the physical start-up of Unit-1 of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant marked a major milestone in the country's integration into the global nuclear energy community.

At the same time, he stressed that Bangladesh remains fully aware of the responsibilities associated with nuclear energy and is committed to maintaining the highest standards of nuclear safety, security and safeguards.

The minister called for stronger international cooperation to facilitate the safe and timely deployment of advanced SMR technologies, including floating nuclear power plants. He said cooperation in technology, policy, regulation, safety and capacity building would be essential.

Describing ATLAS as an important international platform, Anam said the initiative brings together policymakers, scientists, regulators, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to address issues surrounding nuclear technology in maritime applications.

He said Bangladesh looks forward to continued cooperation with the IAEA's ATLAS initiative to explore opportunities in the civil nuclear maritime sector while maintaining the highest standards of safety, security and international safeguards.

The minister said international cooperation, knowledge sharing and responsible use of nuclear technologies could help build a safer, cleaner and more sustainable future.

The first ministerial-level ATLAS event in Washington is being attended by US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi, ministers and senior government officials from different countries, representatives of nuclear and maritime regulatory authorities, international organizations and experts from the shipping and nuclear technology sectors.

Representatives from 19 countries, including the United States, Bangladesh, the Netherlands, Norway, Kenya, the United Kingdom, France, Brazil, South Korea, China and Russia, are participating in the event and related panel discussions.