Participants of the International Conference on "Prospects for the Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy for Sustainable Development in OIC Member States: International and National Experience."

Dear conference participants!

Ladies and gentlemen!

I sincerely welcome all participants of the international conference dedicated to the current issues of the development and use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

I would like to express my deep gratitude to the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Mr. Rafael Grossi, for his active support of the initiative to hold this important and authoritative forum in our country and for his personal participation.

It is gratifying that this conference is taking place in the ancient city of Samarkand, which has connected the East and West for many centuries and is now transforming into a center for global and effective dialogue on the most pressing issues of international cooperation.

Dear conference participants!

In today's context, where the negative consequences of climate change and the shortage of traditional energy sources are becoming increasingly evident, the peaceful use of nuclear energy emerges as a crucial alternative solution aimed at improving the quality of life and implementing national development strategies.

At the climate summit COP28 held last year in Dubai, leaders from many countries reached several agreements to triple nuclear energy capacity by 2050, significantly reducing the negative impact of hydrocarbon energy sources on the environment.

The use of reliable, safe, economically efficient, and environmentally friendly energy sources is one of the main priorities of the extensive reforms being carried out in New Uzbekistan.

To strengthen the legal and institutional framework of this sector, we have established a specialized National Agency, adopted the Law "On the Use of Nuclear Energy for Peaceful Purposes," developed a long-term Concept for the Development of Nuclear Energy, and implemented a strategy aimed at enhancing the human resource potential in this field. We have also introduced a system for training qualified specialists for the industry.

Our country is among the first in the world to begin constructing small nuclear power plants in accordance with international requirements and standards. We view the IAEA as an important partner in the successful implementation of these projects, as well as several programs in the fields of science and health.

Undoubtedly, the introduction of advanced nuclear energy technologies will provide an additional impetus for the development of our country, the creation of new scientific and technical developments, and the transition to an innovative economy.

Ladies and gentlemen!

I would like to emphasize that today’s conference will serve as an important platform for sharing knowledge and experiences accumulated in this field, establishing comprehensive cooperation, and developing specific recommendations and practical proposals for the effective use of peaceful nuclear energy to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

The agenda of the conference includes pressing issues such as the construction of nuclear power plants, ensuring their safety, and the environmental aspects of nuclear technology development, implemented in coordination with the IAEA.

I am confident that the forum will also focus on innovations, nuclear medicine, the development of education, and the training of qualified personnel for the nuclear sector.

I believe that all ideas and initiatives discussed during the conference will contribute to expanding dialogue and international cooperation in this significant area, strengthening energy security, and ensuring sustainable development for our countries.

Uzbekistan is always ready for close cooperation with all foreign partners in this priority direction.

I wish everyone good health, new achievements in your activities, and a successful conference.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan