Russia has reaffirmed the strategic importance of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, stating that Bangladesh’s first nuclear power facility is expected to generate up to 10% of the country’s total electricity once both units become fully operational. Report UNB
Describing Rooppur as the flagship project of Russia-Bangladesh cooperation, the Russian Foreign Ministry said the project has laid the foundation for Bangladesh’s nuclear energy industry and helped develop a skilled national workforce to operate the facility.
According to the Russian side, the first unit of the plant was commissioned on April 28, while the second unit is expected to be launched later this year.
Russia also highlighted its broader contribution to Bangladesh’s energy sector. Between 2012 and 2023, Gazprom International completed turnkey drilling projects for around 20 gas wells in Bangladesh, supporting domestic natural gas production.
The remarks came as Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman arrived in Moscow on a three-day official visit at the invitation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. During the visit, the two sides are expected to review bilateral cooperation and discuss future collaboration in energy, trade, education, and regional affairs.
Russia described Bangladesh as a long-standing partner in South Asia, noting that bilateral trade has consistently exceeded $2 billion annually in recent years. The two countries also maintain cooperation in multilateral forums, including the United Nations.
The visit marks Dr. Rahman’s first official trip to Russia since assuming office following Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections earlier this year.
