Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Russian President Vladimir Putin have officially launched the construction of the first power unit of Uzbekistan’s integrated nuclear power plant, marking a major step in the country’s long-term energy strategy.

The launch ceremony was held via teleconference and was attended by Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi, underscoring the international significance of the project, The Caspian Post reports via Anhor.uz.

Mirziyoyev emphasized that safety remains the project’s highest priority. He noted that the construction and future operation of the nuclear plant are being carried out in accordance with modern international standards, advanced engineering solutions, and under the continuous oversight of the IAEA.

Putin stated that Russia would not only build the nuclear power plant but also provide Uzbekistan with a preferential export loan and support throughout the facility’s entire lifecycle.

“The pouring of the first concrete into the foundation of power unit No. 1 means that the creation of one of the largest nuclear power plants in the region is moving into the practical stage,” Putin said.

Rosatom First Deputy Director General for Nuclear Energy Andrey Petrov said that preparatory work at the site began in October last year, while construction of the reactor building’s concrete foundation started in March.

Uzatom officials confirmed that all preparatory stages have been completed and that Uzbekistan’s Committee for Industrial, Radiation and Nuclear Safety has issued the construction license, clearing the way for full-scale implementation of the project.