DHAKA, September 15, 2026 - Bangladesh has reaffirmed its commitment to developing an integrated, equitable and sustainable cancer care system through the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology to address the country’s growing cancer burden.
Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam said the government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is committed to using nuclear science and technology to strengthen cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment and contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 on good health and well-being for all.
He made the remarks while addressing the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Scientific Forum 2026, titled “Rays of Hope: Delivering on the Promise of Cancer Care,” in Vienna, Austria, according to a ministry press release.
The minister expressed gratitude to IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and the IAEA Secretariat for advancing the “Rays of Hope: Cancer Care for All” initiative.
He stressed that adequate equipment and infrastructure alone cannot ensure sustainable cancer treatment. A comprehensive system is needed covering prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, skilled human resources, quality assurance and palliative care.
Bangladesh joined the Rays of Hope initiative in 2025 and is working with the IAEA to develop an effective national-level program. One of the priorities is establishing an integrated one-stop cancer care center to provide coordinated, accessible and patient-centered services.
Anam appreciated the IAEA’s technical cooperation in capacity building, knowledge sharing and strengthening sustainable cancer care in Bangladesh.
He said Bangladesh is also looking forward to the IAEA-WHO-IMPACT Review Mission scheduled for November 2026, which will provide an opportunity to assess the country’s national cancer control capacity and identify realistic priorities across the cancer treatment system.
The minister said Bangladesh would also strengthen research and development while expanding opportunities for international education, training, fellowships and joint research for students, scientists and researchers.
He emphasized that developing skilled human resources and knowledge-based international partnerships would be essential to ensuring that the benefits of nuclear science and technology reach society over the long term.
“The government’s goal is to build a more integrated, equitable and sustainable cancer care system so that the benefits of nuclear science and technology reach those who need them most,” he said.
Anam reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to working closely with the IAEA and its partners to translate the Rays of Hope initiative into tangible and lasting benefits for the people of Bangladesh.
