Dhaka: Bangladesh and Russia are ready to sign an initial agreement on setting up nuclear power plant in the South Asian country when Foreign Minister Dipu Moni goes to Moscow at the end of this month.
 
“During her visit to Russia, the foreign minister-level agreement may be signed after a thorough discussion on the installation of the power plant,” said Dr. Yeafes Osman, State Minister for Science and Information Communication Technology to reporters after a meeting at his office in the city Sunday.

Dipu Moni’s trip will pave the way for Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s visit to Moscow in November to strike the final deal, he added.

Earlier on May 13 last year, the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in the city aiming to enhance cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

The main purpose of the MoU is to take necessary steps for building a 600-1000-MW power plant in Bangladesh, as the country passes through a debilitating electricity crisis.

BDST 0206 hrs May 16, 2010
UB/RS/SMS/MUA