Nuke Plant: Russian ambassador hopeful of settling loan repayment issues
Separate meetings with foreign adviser, secretary held
Russian Ambassador to Bangladesh Alexander Khozin has expressed optimism over settling the debt repayment issues for the Russia-funded Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, stressing that the two countries are heading towards positive discussions to resolve the issue.
"We are ready to discuss [the matter] with the appropriate authorities – the Ministry of Finance of Bangladesh. I am absolutely sure that this will be resolved," he told reporters today (19 January) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, adding that they are moving in a positive direction.
The Russian ambassador, who had separate meetings with Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin and Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, said the issue is sensitive and going to be discussed with specialists and professionals.
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"However, I would not speculate at this moment," he said, responding to queries from reporters regarding the prospects of bilateral relations and joint projects, expressing hope that the payment will be done and settled.
During the talks, the two sides discussed bilateral issues of mutual interest and cooperation between Bangladesh and Russia in the international arena.
The ambassador also reiterated his country's commitment to unwavering support, cooperation and partnership with Bangladesh to further strengthen the relations on all fronts.
Ambassador Khozin said he is very impressed to be here in Bangladesh after serving in other South Asian nations – India, Nepal and Pakistan – in various capacities.
He also talked about other areas of cooperation – food security, agriculture, shipbuilding – in addition to the Rohingya issue.
On 30 December 2024, Ambassador Khozin presented his credentials to President Mohammed Shahabuddin.
During conversations with the President, Ambassador Khozin exchanged views on the prospects of bilateral relations.
"It is my sincere hope that during my tenure the bonds of friendship between Dhaka and Moscow will continue to thrive and strengthen through the mutually beneficial cooperation between our nations," Khozin wrote in the President Office guest book.
