Bangladesh seeks US cooperation on SMRs, nuclear technology

Bangladesh has sought greater cooperation from the United States (US) on small modular reactors (SMRs), peaceful nuclear technology and other areas of the energy sector as it seeks to strengthen energy security and meet growing electricity demand.

The issue was discussed at a meeting between Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam and US Energy Secretary Chris Wright in Washington, DC, yesterday (27 August).

Bangladesh stressed the importance of using modern and safe nuclear technology and exchanging technology and expertise with the US and other technologically advanced countries, according to a press release.

Anam said the peaceful use of modern and safe nuclear technology could play an important role in meeting Bangladesh's growing energy needs, ensuring energy security and supporting sustainable development.

He said Bangladesh was committed to the peaceful, safe and responsible use of nuclear technology and needed to strengthen the exchange of knowledge, experience and technology with countries such as the US.

Wright expressed a positive view of the scope for cooperation with Bangladesh in the energy and nuclear technology sectors, the release said.

He also said the development and expansion of modern nuclear technology and SMRs were among US priorities.

The two sides discussed assistance in the energy sector, technology and knowledge exchange, and ways to deepen mutual understanding and cooperation in nuclear science and technology.

They expressed interest in working together in the future to deepen cooperation in nuclear science and technology and the energy sector, according to the release.