According to Azim Akhmedkhadjaev, Director of the Uzatom Agency, the strategy outlines requirements and regulations for the transportation, use, and disposal of nuclear materials.
— The draft strategy covers procedures for managing spent nuclear fuel and radioactive waste. Special attention is given to ensuring compliance with regulations for the transportation of nuclear materials both within Uzbekistan and beyond its borders. Additionally, the document includes measures aimed at enhancing the qualifications of specialists and improving the scientific and technical infrastructure, — Akhmedkhadjaev stated in response to a Kazinform correspondent’s inquiry.
He also mentioned that Uzbekistan is exploring the possibility of using domestically mined natural uranium to produce nuclear fuel for its planned nuclear power plant.
— The proposal to supply uranium for processing abroad and subsequently obtain ready-to-use nuclear fuel for the NPP is currently being studied. In this regard, it is essential to analyze the project’s economic viability and potential risks, — Akhmedkhadjaev emphasized.
It is worth noting that Uzbekistan ranks fifth in the world in uranium production and is among the top ten countries with the largest uranium reserves.
— Efficient utilization of the country’s uranium resources will serve as a foundation for further development of nuclear energy, providing a boost to the national economy. Countries such as Russia, China, France, and the United States are engaged in uranium enrichment for nuclear reactors. These factors highlight the importance and relevance of developing a comprehensive uranium utilization strategy in Uzbekistan, — concluded Azim Akhmedkhadjaev.
