USA Bureau

Minister for Science and Technology Fakir Mahbub Anam has emphasized the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear energy to combat climate change, ensure energy security, and accelerate sustainable economic development.

The Minister made these remarks while representing Bangladesh in his address at the ministerial opening ceremony of the "Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications of Sea (ATLAS) Ministerial Inaugural Event 2026" held in Washington, D.C on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, the Science and Technology Minister stated that Bangladesh is working with a high sense of responsibility and commitment to advancing global discussions on nuclear energy, particularly regarding the safe application of advanced nuclear technologies in maritime fields.

He noted that the world currently faces critical challenges such as the climate crisis, energy security, and surging energy demands. In this context, the role of nuclear energy is growing increasingly vital to curbing carbon emissions and ensuring reliable energy supplies.

Highlighting advanced nuclear technology and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), the Minister said they can play a pivotal role in meeting future energy demands. As reliable sources of low-carbon electricity, these technologies contribute to poverty reduction, accelerated economic growth, and an improved quality of life. Bangladesh welcomes the inclusion of nuclear energy in the findings of the first Global Stocktake under the Paris Agreement.

Outlining Bangladesh's energy realities, he explained that as a densely populated country with limited domestic energy resources, Bangladesh must simultaneously meet growing energy demands, ensure energy security, and cope with the adverse impacts of climate change.

The Minister called for stronger cooperation among international partners to ensure the timely and safe deployment of advanced SMR technologies, including floating nuclear power plants.

Describing ATLAS as a vital international initiative, he noted that it brings policymakers, scientists, regulators, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders onto a single platform to address key issues surrounding the maritime application of nuclear technology, thereby creating opportunities to realize the potential of the civil nuclear maritime industry.

Concluding his address, the Minister expressed Bangladesh's eagerness to maintain continuous cooperation with the IAEA’s ATLAS initiative to open new horizons in the civil nuclear maritime industry while upholding the highest standards of nuclear safety, security, and international safeguards.

The inaugural ministerial event of ATLAS in Washington, D.C., brings together nearly 800 delegates, including ministers, high-level government officials, nuclear and maritime regulators, representatives of international organizations, leaders of the shipping and nuclear technology industries, and experts from around the globe.