Russia offers floating nuclear plant option to Bangladesh
TLE Desk: Russia has proposed the possibility of supplying a floating nuclear power plant unit to Bangladesh as the two countries explore deeper cooperation in advanced nuclear technology and long-term energy security, reports BSS.
The proposal emerged during a meeting in Moscow on June 9 between Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev, held on the sidelines of the foreign minister’s three-day official visit to Russia, according to a Foreign Ministry press release.
The discussions focused on Bangladesh–Russia cooperation in the nuclear energy sector, with emphasis on the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant and future energy collaboration, including small modular reactors (SMRs) and other emerging technologies.
Referring to earlier talks between Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Rosatom officials, Dr Khalilur Rahman sought detailed information on the technical and economic feasibility of SMRs as Bangladesh seeks to diversify its energy mix and strengthen energy security.
In response, Rosatom chief Likhachev indicated that Russia could offer Bangladesh a floating nuclear power plant unit, opening a new potential avenue for collaboration in the country’s energy development strategy.
The Foreign Minister described the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant as a key pillar of Bangladesh–Russia relations and highlighted its importance for national energy security and macroeconomic stability.
He noted that nuclear fuel loading at Unit-1 of the Rooppur plant was completed in May and requested continued Russian technical support for grid synchronization and eventual commercial operation.
Russian officials assured that the commissioning and synchronization process would be completed soon, while also stating that Unit-2 of Bangladesh’s first nuclear power plant is expected to become operational next summer.
The meeting also discussed expanding cooperation in human resource development for Bangladesh’s nuclear sector, particularly in reactor engineering, plant operations and regulatory oversight.
Dr Khalilur emphasized the importance of developing a skilled Bangladeshi nuclear workforce capable of supporting both domestic projects and future international engagements.
Rosatom expressed readiness to strengthen training and professional development collaboration.
The meeting was attended by Prime Minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs Humayun Kobir. Dr Khalilur Rahman visited Russia from June 7 to 9 at the invitation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
