Nuclear energy: BAEC signs deal with South Korean research institute
Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute and the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC) have signed a contract for renovating 3 MW BAEC TRIGA Research Reactor (BTRR), as Bangladesh and Korea step up efforts for the development of peaceful nuclear energy.
Dr Md Sanowar Hossain, chairman of BAEC, Dr PARK Won-seok, president of Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI), and South Korean Ambassador to Bangladesh, Lee Jang-Keun, were present at the virtual contract signing event today.
The project includes the design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the digital I&C system of BTRR, which has been in operation since 1986. The duration of the project is expected to be 18 months.
The project became KAERI's 6th major technology export related to research reactors, after its successful partnerships with Jordan, Greece, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Netherlands.
It is also anticipated to be the stepping stone for further collaboration between KAERI and BAEC, including future research reactor development in Bangladesh.
In his congratulatory remark, Ambassador Lee highlighted that the contract marks the beginning of the Korea-Bangladesh partnership in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and is opening a new chapter in the bilateral ties as both countries move towards diversifying the areas of cooperation beyond the RMG sector.
Ambassador Lee also noted that Korea, ranking 6th in the world in terms of the total capacity of nuclear power generation, is a world leader in the peaceful use of nuclear energy from research to electricity production.
Fully committed to the international non-proliferation regime, Korea and Bangladesh will find further opportunities for cooperation in the future, he said.
Ambassador Lee looks forward to an early signing of the proposed MOU between KAERI and BAEC and meaningful progress in the discussions between the governments for the conclusion of the bilateral agreement on peaceful nuclear cooperation.