International Nuclear Council Met in Tashkent
The third Advisory Council meeting gathered 150 global experts to discuss the MBIR research reactor program.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Nuclear
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Representatives from 18 countries convened at the Institute of Nuclear Physics in Uzbekistan to advance cooperation on the MBIR multipurpose fast research reactor. The council aims to develop shared research platforms for future nuclear energy technologies.
Why it matters
International collaboration on nuclear research infrastructure, such as the MBIR project, is essential to closing the nuclear fuel cycle and minimizing radioactive waste production. Shared programs help streamline the development of advanced reactors by leveraging existing facilities and expertise.
The meeting gathered 150 participants from 72 organizations to coordinate research across global nuclear facilities. Planned developments include a 50 MW low-power energy facility that integrates artificial intelligence into the research process.
The players
Institute of Nuclear Physics
This is a research institution under the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan that hosted the international council meeting.
Advisory Council of the International Research Centre
This body coordinates multi-national cooperation and infrastructure development for advanced nuclear research programs.
The details
The council focused on integrating the MBIR reactor capabilities with existing infrastructure, such as the operational PIK reactor, the WWR-SM reactor, and an accelerator complex. These efforts support the broader objective of establishing a closed nuclear fuel cycle.
Timeline
The third meeting of the Advisory Council occurred on October 2, 2026.
The Big Picture
This story marks a governance milestone for the MBIR multipurpose fast research reactor, which acts as a central hub for international fuel cycle research. It reinforces a shift toward globalized research platforms to solve long-standing challenges in radioactive waste management.
The development of 50 MW low-power reactors and advanced fuel cycle technology could lead to more sustainable and efficient energy production in the future. These innovations aim to reduce long-term environmental impacts associated with nuclear energy waste.
The takeaway
International consensus remains a critical driver for large-scale nuclear infrastructure projects. Countries benefit by pooling resources and technical expertise to accelerate the deployment of next-generation energy facilities.
Further reading
For more on international scientific collaboration, visit the Nuclear section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by UzDaily.
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