Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam has reaffirmed Bangladesh’s firm commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear science, maintaining the highest standards of safety and strengthening international cooperation.
He made the remarks while representing Bangladesh at the 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna.
Addressing the President of the 70th IAEA General Conference on Monday, the minister expressed gratitude to IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi for his role in expanding the peaceful uses of nuclear technology and promoting international cooperation.
Faqir Mahbub Anam said Bangladesh has benefited from the IAEA’s Technical Cooperation Program for more than five decades in several critical sectors, including health, agriculture, food, water management, industry and energy.
He said Bangladesh recently signed the Country Program Framework (CPF) for 2026-2032, which will create new opportunities for technical cooperation in the coming years.
Referring to the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant as a historic milestone for Bangladesh’s energy security, the minister said the fuel loading of Unit-1 marked significant progress towards carbon-free electricity generation.
He said the project will not only help meet the country’s growing electricity demand but also create new opportunities to strengthen energy security and address climate change.
Highlighting Bangladesh’s strong commitment to nuclear safety, Faqir Mahbub Anam said Bangladesh’s inclusion as the first country in South Asia in the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management reflects the country’s commitment to implementing a safe and responsible nuclear program.
He said Bangladesh remains committed to ensuring nuclear safety and security and responsible management in line with the highest international standards.
Emphasizing the importance of bringing the benefits of science and technology to people’s doorsteps, the minister said the application of nuclear technology should not remain limited to technological advancement.
He particularly stressed the need to further strengthen cooperation under the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative to expand access to cancer treatment.
Bangladesh is committed to using the peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology as key instruments for sustainable development and public welfare and for building a safe and prosperous Bangladesh for future generations, he said.