As global energy markets rethink long-term strategies, nuclear power is once again moving to the center of international discussions. This shift was clearly reflected in Washington, D.C., where the Nuclear Fuel Supply Forum brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and experts to talk about one critical issue: how to ensure reliable and sustainable supplies of nuclear fuel in an increasingly complex world, DKNews.kz reports.
The forum was organized with the support of NAC Kazatomprom JSC and hosted at the Nuclear Energy Institute, the leading U.S. industry organization shaping policy and technology in commercial nuclear energy.
A strategic conversation, not just an industry event
More than 100 participants from the United States and other countries took part in the forum, representing key segments of the nuclear fuel cycle, U.S. government agencies, and the expert community. The presence of such a diverse audience underlined that nuclear fuel today is not only a commercial matter, but also a strategic one.
Kazakhstan was represented by Magzhan Ilyassov, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United States, and Vladislav Baiguzhin, Chief Commercial Officer of NAC Kazatomprom.
35 years of partnership and a growing energy dimension
In his remarks, Ambassador Ilyassov highlighted the strong state of Kazakhstan–U.S. relations, which mark their 35th anniversary this year. He emphasized that energy cooperation remains one of the pillars of this partnership.
A key point of his speech was Kazakhstan’s role in the global uranium market. As the world’s largest uranium producer, Kazakhstan accounts for around 40 percent of global primary uranium production and is one of the principal suppliers to the U.S. market. In the context of energy security and supply chain resilience, this role is becoming increasingly important.
The future of the nuclear fuel cycle
The forum focused on both current challenges and long-term prospects of the global nuclear fuel cycle. Participants discussed how to maintain stable supplies of this strategic resource while adapting to changing geopolitical conditions, climate goals, and growing demand for low-carbon energy.
During the discussions, Vladislav Baiguzhin presented an overview of Kazatomprom’s current position in the global uranium market. He also outlined the company’s long-term development plans and strategic priorities, stressing the importance of predictability, reliability, and long-term partnerships.
Why this forum matters
What made the Washington forum particularly notable was its broader context. Nuclear energy is increasingly seen as a key component of the global energy transition, and uranium supply chains are now viewed through the lens of sustainability and national security.
In this environment, Kazakhstan’s role goes beyond simple production volumes. The country is positioning itself as a stable, responsible, and long-term partner for global markets, especially for the United States.
A signal to global markets
The Nuclear Fuel Supply Forum sent a clear signal: discussions about uranium today are discussions about the future of energy. For Kazakhstan, participation in such high-level platforms reinforces its standing as a central player in the global nuclear energy architecture.
As countries look for reliable partners to support their energy transitions, the conversations held in Washington suggest that Kazakhstan’s voice and resources will continue to play a significant role in shaping that future.
