Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  On 5 December 2024, an international conference on the peaceful use of nuclear energy is taking place in Samarkand.

The event, organized by the Presidential Administration, the Cabinet of Ministers, and the Uzbekistan Atomic Energy Agency, has gathered representatives from governments, academia, business, and international organizations (including the IAEA and WNA) from numerous countries, including members of the OIC, Central and South Asia, Russia, the Middle East, the EU, and the USA.

The five panel discussions focus on key aspects of nuclear energy: prospects for development in OIC countries (with special emphasis on Uzbekistan), the role of international organizations in ensuring nuclear safety, environmental and social implications, innovative technologies, and workforce training.

Sherzod Asadov, the President’s press secretary, opened the forum with a message from Shavkat Mirziyoyev, emphasizing the importance of expanding cooperation and sharing knowledge and experiences with international partners.

The main goals of the conference included analyzing the prospects for nuclear energy development in Uzbekistan and OIC countries, discussing the role of international organizations in ensuring safety, exploring the environmental and social aspects, examining the use of nuclear technologies for peaceful purposes, and determining priorities for education and training. The conference is aimed at developing strategies for the safe and efficient use of nuclear energy to achieve sustainable development.

Participants had a unique opportunity to exchange experiences and knowledge in the field of peaceful nuclear energy use. The conference underscored the importance of international cooperation for the development of nuclear energy in Uzbekistan, with priorities focusing on safety, environmental responsibility, and economic efficiency.

The support of the IAEA, including technical assistance and regulatory improvements, plays a key role.

The experience of leading countries confirms the potential of nuclear technologies for scientific progress, digitalization, and economic growth.

Uzbekistan plans to use nuclear technologies (such as nuclear medicine, isotope production, and research reactors) to transition to an innovative economy.

The conference demonstrated Uzbekistan’s readiness to integrate international experience and adopt best practices for the safe and effective development of the nuclear industry.