Uzbekistan studies Belarus nuclear safety experience ahead of 2030 reactor launch

Uzbekistan's Minister for Emergency Situations Azizbek Ikramov held a working meeting with Belarus Emergency Ministry Minister Vadim Sinyavsky on October 23, focusing negotiations on nuclear facility safety. The meeting took place at the Belarusian Republican Emergency Situation Management and Response Center, the Belarusian agency reported.

Ikramov explained that the Uzbek delegation came to study Belarus's experience in nuclear energy: Uzbekistan plans to bring its first reactors into operation by 2030. He is interested in monitoring and early warning systems, emergency service coordination, population protection planning, and evacuation procedures.

"Today we have an opportunity to give our cooperation new practical momentum," Ikramov said.

The Belarusian side presented reports on civil protection at nuclear facilities, emergency response readiness, personnel training, fire safety, as well as oversight of safe operation of the Belarusian Nuclear Power Plant and regulation of nuclear and radiation safety.

Ikramov proposed expanding cooperation through joint research projects, exchange of scientific and technical information and technologies, as well as through joint exercises and student and teacher exchange. He also raised the question of joint production and certification of fire-fighting equipment and gear.

Sinyavsky expressed readiness to share practical experience, continue training Uzbek rescue personnel, and supply fire and rescue equipment, machinery, and protective clothing. He recalled that the ministries' interaction is also carried out within the framework of the CIS and SCO. Cooperation between the two agencies is based on an agreement signed in 2008.