Photo caption: BRICS nuclear dialogue
By Emeka Ugwuanyi
First expert panel of the BRICS Nuclear Platform explores best practices and collaboration opportunities for nuclear development
The inaugural expert panel of the BRICS Nuclear Platform was held recently in Beijing, China, on the sidelines of the CIENPI — 2025 exhibition. The session, titled “Key Factors Impacting the Development of Nuclear Power”, brought together government and industry representatives from BRICS and BRICS partner countries, including China, Russia, Brazil, South Africa, Iran, and others, along with participants from the ASEAN Centre for Energy and the World Nuclear Association (WNA).
According to a statement by Lada Terentyeva of Rosatom Africa PR Support, the panel focused on practical solutions for deploying nuclear energy more efficiently, emerging trends in the global industry, and future areas for cooperation to support energy security and balanced development. Opening remarks were delivered by Elsie Pule, Head Coordinator of the BRICS Nuclear Platform (South Africa), and Celso Cunha, President of the Brazilian Association for the Development of Nuclear Activities (ABDAN).
The session also served as a platform for nuclear newcomer countries to engage with more experienced players, gaining insight into both energy and non-energy applications of nuclear technologies. For many participants, it was an opportunity to explore how innovation in the field can help address critical environmental and social challenges.
“Young specialists in the nuclear industry need the support of experienced experts from countries with advanced technologies. The session provided an opportunity for representatives of BRICS nuclear organisations to establish interaction for the development of joint projects,” mentioned Chen Xin, Deputy Director of the Uranium Resources Department of SNURDC (China).
As African countries expand their energy ambitions and explore nuclear power as part of a diversified, low-carbon future, platforms like this play a vital role. South African representatives actively contributed to the panel discussion, while organisations from Egypt and Ethiopia have also expressed support for the BRICS Nuclear Platform — highlighting the growing interest in nuclear collaboration across the continent.
“The session once again confirmed that there is a large and as yet untapped potential for joint work between BRICS organisations and partners. We will continue to move forward and ‘take a step leaving a footprint’. Preparations for the next expert panel session have already been launched,” remarked Artem Goncharuk, Director General of Rosatom East Asia.
The next session will be held on 21 May 2025 in Brazil on the margins of the Nuclear Trade & Technology Exchange (NT2E) exhibition and conference.
