Editorial
Dhaka-Moscow nuclear cooperation
A bold, realistic step that promises dividends
THE agreement between Bangladesh and the Russian Federation on cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy is certainly a milestone in the history of Dhaka-Moscow relations. The five-year deal comes at a time when Bangladesh happens to be going through a severe crisis in the power sector. Obviously, this deal will go a considerable way in reducing our critical dependence on gas-fuelled electricity. Considering the difficulties Bangladesh has been passing through in the power sector for years together, the deal is a bold and feasible step that promises dividends in our energy sector. Given that nuclear cooperation with Moscow is not a new phenomenon in our part of the world (one recalls the deal reached by the former Soviet Union and the then Pakistan in 1960), the Dhaka-Moscow agreement surely introduces a new dimension to bilateral cooperation in our part of the world. For Dhaka, it signifies a new direction in energy policy prioritization and diversification.
The details of the agreement comprehensively spell out the important aspects of the projected cooperation. In essence, Moscow's assistance in helping Dhaka develop and operate nuclear power and research sectors as also develop innovative nuclear reactor technologies in line with the standards set by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) are a crucial underpinning of the deal. Cooperation in such areas as prospecting and developing uranium and thorium deposits and nuclear fuel cycle services are crucial in the sense that they will provide Bangladesh with a stable framework on which to base its projected fulfillment of energy requirements well into the coming decades. Nuclear energy, be it noted, is in our times a relatively safe and sure method of ensuring power and, by extension, promoting socio-economic development. It is in such a context that the Dhaka-Moscow assumes significance for the two countries but especially for Bangladesh.
A highly reassuring point about the nuclear cooperation agreement relates to the disposal of Russian nuclear fuel waste, handling radioactive waste and adhering to nuclear and radiation safety standards. Such precautions are absolutely vital given some disasters which have threatened lives. We believe that the deal, which will be supervised by the governments of the two countries through a joint coordination committee, will in the stages of implementation be firmed up by the guarantees noted in it.
With our acute need for power, not just for domestic consumption but, more crucially, for industrial purposes, the agreement reassures us about a way out of the woods. More to the point, it is a sign that in its enlightened national interest, Bangladesh can and must strike deals with nations willing to do business with it in a cooperative manner and with full understanding of the principles governing relations between nations.
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