Russian President Vladimir Putin and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev formally launched the construction of its first nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan during a ceremony held on 4th June 2026. The event took place while Mirziyoyev was on a working visit to Russia and attending activities on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). Both leaders characterized the project as a significant development in relations between the two countries and highlighted its importance for long-term cooperation in the energy sector.
According to the Kremlin, Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom will build the facility, which is designed as a hybrid nuclear power plant. Mirziyoyev described the occasion as a historic day, emphasizing the unique structure of the project. Uzbekistan’s first nuclear power plant project is set to combine both small and large reactor units as part of its overall design.
“For the first time in history, Rosatom is building a hybrid station: two small units and two large units,” he said.
“We worked toward this for a long time, discussed it extensively and finally arrived at what we believe is the right decision,” he added.
Beyond the nuclear power initiative, the leaders engaged in discussions concerning broader economic collaboration. President Putin noted a substantial increase in trade between the two countries, exceeding 12% last year, and pointed to robust growth in Russian investment within Uzbekistan.
“We are pleased with what is happening in Uzbekistan’s economy under your leadership,” Putin remarked.
“Trade turnover is growing, and Russian investment in the Uzbek economy is also showing strong momentum,” he further added.
Mirziyoyev said bilateral trade reached about $13 billion in 2025 and continued to advance toward the previously announced target of $20 billion annually.
Uzbekistan’s first nuclear power plant is expected to become one of the most significant long-term energy cooperation projects between Russia and Uzbekistan.
