Bangladesh has joined governments, nuclear regulators and industry leaders in Washington to discuss the emerging use of nuclear technology at sea, with Science and Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam highlighting the country's interest in advanced reactors and floating nuclear power plants.

According to a press release, speaking at the first ministerial-level atomic technologies licensed for applications of sea (ATLAS) launch event on August 26, Faqir Anam said advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), could help address rising energy demand, energy security and climate change. He also stressed that any expansion of nuclear technology must meet the highest standards of safety, security and international safeguards.

In a joint statement, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has also said advanced SMRs could have potential for maritime applications, including commercial shipping and floating nuclear power plants that could provide electricity to coastal and remote communities. 

The event in Washington was attended by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and representatives from governments, regulatory authorities, international organisations and the nuclear and maritime industries.