Esteemed participants of the conference!
Ladies and gentlemen!
I would like to extend my warm greetings to all those attending the international conference that focuses on the important issues surrounding the peaceful use and development of nuclear energy.
I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to Mr. Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, for his strong support in organizing this significant and prestigious event in our country and for his personal participation.
We are especially pleased to host this conference in the ancient city of Samarkand, which has historically served as a bridge between East and West and is now emerging as a prominent center for global dialogue on pressing issues of international cooperation.
Dear conference participants!
In light of the current circumstances where the negative impacts of climate change and the depletion of traditional energy sources are becoming increasingly evident, peaceful nuclear energy has become a crucial alternative solution for improving living standards and achieving national development goals.
It is not a coincidence that at the COP28 Climate Summit held last year in Dubai, many national leaders reached significant agreements to triple nuclear power generation by 2050 in order to significantly reduce the harmful environmental effects of hydrocarbon energy sources.
Ensuring reliable, safe, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly energy sources for our country is one of the top priorities in the sweeping reforms taking place in New Uzbekistan.
We have established a National Agency to strengthen the regulatory and legal framework in this sector, adopted a Law on the Peaceful Use of Atomic Energy, a long-term Concept of Nuclear Power Development, and a strategy aimed at enhancing human resources in the field. We have also implemented a system for training highly skilled specialists for the industry.
Our country was one of the first in the world to initiate the construction of small nuclear power plants in accordance with international standards and requirements. We consider the IAEA as our key partner in the successful implementation of these projects, as well as in various healthcare and scientific programs.
Undoubtedly, the adoption of advanced nuclear power technologies will greatly contribute to the development of our country, create opportunities for new scientific and technological advancements, and facilitate the transition to an innovative economy.
Ladies and gentlemen!
I would like to emphasize that this conference will serve as a valuable platform for exchanging vast knowledge and experience in this field, establishing comprehensive cooperation, and developing concrete recommendations and practical proposals for the effective use of peaceful nuclear energy in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
The conference agenda includes pressing issues such as the construction of nuclear power plants, ensuring their safety, and addressing environmental aspects of nuclear technology development in collaboration with the IAEA. I am confident that the event will also focus on innovations, nuclear medicine, promoting education in this field, and training skilled personnel.
I am certain that all the insights and initiatives discussed during the conference will promote dialogue and international cooperation in this vital field, enhance energy security, and contribute to the sustainable development of countries.
Uzbekistan is always ready to closely collaborate with all foreign partners in this priority area.
Lastly, I wish all attendees good health, great achievements in their noble endeavors, and success in the conference.
Shavkat Mirziyoyev
President of the Republic of Uzbekistan