For the first time in history, a meeting of nuclear energy experts within the framework of the BRICS Nuclear Energy Platform was held in Beijing (China) on April 27, marking an important turning point for the aspiration to turn nuclear energy into a lever for clean and sustainable development of the BRICS+ bloc.
The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 16th China International Nuclear Energy Industry Exhibition, with the participation of experts, representatives of government agencies and specialized organizations from BRICS countries and partners: China, Russia, Brazil, South Africa, Iran, and representatives from the ASEAN Energy Center and the World Nuclear Energy Association (WNA).
The BRICS Nuclear Energy Platform was launched in October 2024 with the goal of sharing experiences, supporting the development of nuclear technology for the goal of energy security and balanced development globally.
With the theme "Key factors promoting nuclear energy development", the meeting is not only a technical forum but also a strategic launching pad to promote cooperation between member countries and partners.
In their opening speech, Ms. Elsie Pule, Senior Coordinator of the platform (South Africa) and Mr. Celso Cunha, President of the Brazilian Nuclear Industry Development Association, emphasized that: Reflecting the role of nuclear power in global energy transition cannot be just a G7 game.
A representative of the Russian National Nuclear Power Corporation Rosatom - the co-organizer - said: "For new countries participating in the nuclear industry, this is a golden opportunity to learn about solutions to apply nuclear energy not only in the field of electricity but also in health, environment and agriculture".
Mr. Chen Xin - Deputy Director of China National Uranium Resources Development Company - emphasized the role of the meeting with the young generation of experts: "We need experienced experts from high-tech countries to jointly implement joint projects and this meeting is the first step".
Mr. Artem Goncharuk - General Director of Rosatom East Asia - spoke vividly: "We do not just go, but go and leave an impression".
According to the plan, BRICS will organize more expert events at major nuclear conferences in 2025. The next session is scheduled to take place on May 21 in Brazil.
Notably, BRICS currently has about 390 GWe of nuclear power in operation and 66 MWe under construction, becoming one of the largest nuclear power forces outside the G7.
With more than 20 countries open to joining, BRICS is gradually shaping itself not only as an economic - political alliance on par with the G7, but also a developing world technology and energy alliance.
