Russia on Monday reaffirmed the strategic importance of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, describing it as the flagship project of Bangladesh-Russia cooperation and stating that the facility is expected to contribute up to 10 per cent of Bangladesh’s total electricity production once both units become fully operational.
According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the project has not only introduced Russian nuclear technology to Bangladesh but has also established the foundation of the country's nuclear energy sector through extensive training of local specialists and technical personnel.
The ministry noted that the first unit of the Rooppur plant was commissioned on 28 April, while the second unit is expected to be launched later this year.
Russia also highlighted its broader role in Bangladesh’s energy sector. Between 2012 and 2023, Gazprom International Limited, a subsidiary of Gazprom, completed turnkey drilling projects for around 20 gas wells across Bangladesh’s gas fields, demonstrating continued cooperation in conventional energy development.
The remarks came as Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman arrived in Moscow on Sunday for a three-day official visit at the invitation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir is accompanying him on the trip.
The delegation was welcomed at the airport by Bangladesh Ambassador to Russia Md Nazrul Islam and Russian government representatives.
During meetings scheduled for 8 June, both sides are expected to review the current status of bilateral relations, explore future areas of cooperation, and exchange views on regional and international issues. The visit will also include discussions with senior officials of the Federation Council of Russia.
Russia emphasised its long-standing relationship with Bangladesh, recalling that Moscow was among the first countries to recognise Bangladesh’s independence in 1972 and provided substantial political and economic support in the early years. It also highlighted the role of Soviet naval forces in clearing mines and wreckage from Chattogram Port between 1972 and 1974.
Bilateral political engagement continues to remain active, with cooperation extending through the United Nations and other international organisations. Trade between the two countries has consistently surpassed $2 billion annually in recent years. Russia mainly exports industrial equipment, wheat and fertiliser, while importing Bangladeshi garments and seafood products.
The Russian side further noted that 185 scholarships have been allocated to Bangladeshi students for the 2025-26 academic year under a federal funding programme, reflecting growing collaboration in education alongside energy and trade.
