Rooppur Nuclear Plant Test Run to Begin Soon

Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus met today Director General of State Corporation for Nuclear Energy ROSATOM of the Russian Federation, Alexey Likhachev at the State Guest House Jamuna in Dhaka. Photo : PID

“The dry run of the project is currently underway, and we will soon begin the test run,” Likhachev said during his visit to the State Guest House Jamuna.

During their discussions, Prof. Yunus highlighted Bangladesh's aspirations to deepen cooperation in nuclear energy, with a focus on mutual interests and the advancement of peaceful nuclear technology. The meeting underscored the ongoing collaboration between Bangladesh and Russia in the development of RNPP, a transformative project aimed at bolstering Bangladesh's energy security through nuclear power.

Prof. Yunus expressed his gratitude for ROSATOM's unwavering support in the construction of the plant and emphasized the importance of completing the project on schedule to meet Bangladesh's growing energy demands. “We look forward to your continued support, which is critical to the success of this project,” he said.

Likhachev provided an update on the RNPP's progress, noting that construction is proceeding as planned, with several key milestones already achieved. "The choices made by the people of Bangladesh are sacred to us," he added, reaffirming ROSATOM's commitment to the project's successful completion, with a strong focus on safety, quality, and adherence to international standards.

The two parties also discussed the potential revision of the Intergovernmental Credit Agreement (IGCA), with an agreement to extend the credit utilization period until the end of 2026. Both sides agreed to sign Protocol No. 2 to the IGCA soon, subject to all necessary formalities.

Additionally, they emphasized the importance of ongoing cooperation in areas such as staff training, safety protocols, and knowledge transfer, ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of the RNPP.

The meeting was attended by Chief Adviser’s Principal Secretary Siraj Uddin Mia, Science and Technology Senior Secretary Md Mokabbir Hossain, and Economic Relations Division Secretary Md Shahriar Kader Siddiky. On the Russian side, Russian Ambassador to Bangladesh Alexander Khozin, Deputy Chairman of the Federal Environmental, Industrial, and Nuclear Supervision Service Alexey Feropontov, ROSATOM's First Deputy Director General Andrey Petrov, and Vice President of ASE JSC and Project Director of Rooppur NPP Alexey Deriy were also present.

Likhachev is currently on a one-day visit to Bangladesh, his second visit following his trip in April 2024.