Uzbekistan and Kurchatov Institute Agree on Strategic Scientific and Technical Cooperation in the Nuclear Sphere

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — An Uzbek delegation led by Azim Ahmedkhadjayev, Director of the Uzatom Agency, held negotiations with the leadership of the National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute” during a working visit, including a series of meetings with its leading specialists.

The discussions focused on prospects for long-term cooperation aimed at developing Uzbekistan’s national competencies in the nuclear sector and jointly advancing cutting-edge nuclear technologies.

Particular attention was paid to areas that support the effective and safe use of nuclear energy for the benefit of the economy, healthcare, and sustainable development.

Priority areas of the partnership include the study of small modular and mobile nuclear reactors, development of nuclear medicine and radioisotope production, utilization of synchrotron radiation and neutron sources, research in plasma physics, thermonuclear fusion, and high-energy physics, implementation of nature-inspired and “green” technologies, development of new materials and additive technologies for the nuclear industry, creation of joint laboratories and research centers, training of highly qualified personnel, academic mobility, and research on unique scientific installations.

During the visit, the Uzatom delegation also toured the Kurchatov Institute’s research infrastructure, including the nuclear medicine research and educational center, the T-15MD tokamak, pilot production of superconducting materials, and the Kurchatov synchrotron radiation source. These facilities are considered foundational platforms for the practical implementation of joint projects.

The key outcome of the visit was the signing of a Scientific and Technical Cooperation Agreement between the Uzatom Agency and the Kurchatov Institute.

Commenting on the signing, Uzatom Director Azim Ahmedkhadjayev noted that the agreement represents an important step in strengthening Uzbekistan’s position in the nuclear sphere, providing access to the unique expertise and infrastructure of one of the world’s leading research centers, and enabling systematic development of the national scientific school as well as large-scale projects in the country’s interests.

Meanwhile, Kurchatov Institute President Mikhail Kovalchuk emphasized that the partnership opens new horizons for joint research and technological breakthroughs in peaceful nuclear energy, nuclear medicine, and advanced materials. He added that Uzbekistan’s dynamic economic development and focus on innovation provide a strong foundation for mutually beneficial cooperation within the context of the global transition to sustainable energy.

The new partnership aims to strengthen Uzbekistan’s position in developing innovative, environmentally friendly energy and implementing advanced technologies of the future.