Central Asia is entering a period of rapid energy transformation. The push toward green growth, lower carbon emissions, and reliable baseload power is driving renewed interest in nuclear energy across the region. Against this backdrop, the meeting between Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Uzbekistan Beibut Atamkulov and Director of Uzbekistan’s Atomic Energy Agency “UzAtom” Azim Akhmedkhadjaev has emerged as a significant signal of deepening regional cooperation, DKNews.kz reports.
A shared goal - safe and sustainable energy
During the talks, the sides discussed key areas of Kazakh-Uzbek cooperation in nuclear energy, including workforce training, environmental protection, safety standards, and prospects for joint initiatives.
Ambassador Atamkulov highlighted the importance of establishing a Regional Nuclear Competence Center. In his view, such a platform could serve not only as an educational hub but also as a driver for applied research and technological development. The initiative is expected to help train a new generation of specialists and strengthen regional expertise in the nuclear sector.
Safety remains the top priority
A major part of the discussion focused on nuclear safety. Uzbekistan’s accession to international conventions in this field was described as an important step toward strengthening the regional nuclear safety architecture.
In this context, the Kazakh diplomat proposed launching an exchange of radiation monitoring data, organizing consultations on environmental impact assessments, and holding joint expert meetings and technical consultations. Cross-border emergency response exercises were also suggested as a practical tool to enhance preparedness and coordination between the two countries.
Kazakhstan’s experience as a valuable regional asset
For his part, UzAtom Director Azim Akhmedkhadjaev emphasized the significance of Kazakhstan’s experience in the nuclear sector and briefed the ambassador on Uzbekistan’s preparations for the construction of a nuclear power plant, including the technological solutions being introduced.
He also noted ongoing efforts to align Uzbekistan’s regulatory framework with international standards and highlighted close cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency. These steps are expected to increase transparency and confidence in future nuclear projects.
Border proximity adds momentum to dialogue
The proximity of the planned nuclear power plant to the border further underscores the need for close coordination. Akhmedkhadjaev supported the proposal to strengthen cooperation with relevant Kazakh government agencies and develop shared approaches to safety, monitoring, and risk management.
Such interaction is seen as essential for information exchange, joint risk assessments, and coordinated responses to potential emergencies.
Central Asia moves toward a nuclear future
Experts note that nuclear power projects in both Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are becoming strategic tools for ensuring long-term energy security. Rising electricity demand, industrial growth, and decarbonization goals are all reinforcing the role of nuclear generation in the region’s future energy mix.
In Kazakhstan, the process has already entered a practical stage - engineering and site survey work began late last year at the location of the country’s future nuclear power plant. Uzbekistan is advancing similar preparations.
At the end of the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their readiness to strengthen partnership ties and expand practical cooperation in nuclear energy. The dialogue reflects a broader regional trend, where collaboration is increasingly viewed as the key resource for technological progress, energy stability, and a robust safety culture across Central Asia.
