Russia’s state-owned atomic energy corporation Rosatom has reported a significant increase in nuclear fuel and equipment deliveries to its ‘friendly’ countries, according to Director General Aleksey Likhachev. During a meeting with President Vladimir Putin, Likhachev stated that while supplies to all recipient countries have been maintained, deliveries to friendly states, particularly in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, have grown noticeably. He further explained that there has been a 60-70% growth in various nuclear fuel cycle-related supplies in these regions, referring to the entire process from uranium mining to the disposal of radioactive waste.
President Putin acknowledged the responsible behavior of client countries despite Western pressure, noting that changing suppliers in the nuclear fuel sector is a technologically challenging task. Likhachev agreed with this assessment, highlighting that states friendly to Moscow are facing enormous political and economic pressure. Additionally, he shared with the president that Rosatom does not see significant growth prospects in the European market. This is not only due to the unfriendly attitude towards Russia but also because the potential for growth in that region is limited.
It is important to note that nuclear power is not covered by EU sanctions against Russia. Although some member states and the European Commission have attempted to target Rosatom executives, these efforts have been unsuccessful due to staunch opposition from countries like Hungary and, to a lesser extent, France. Hungarian authorities, in particular, have actively sought the expansion of the crucial Rosatom-built Paks nuclear power plant and have repeatedly expressed their opposition to any restrictions on Russia’s nuclear sector.
The fact that nuclear power is not subject to EU sanctions provides an advantage for Rosatom to continue expanding its presence in international markets. Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, the company has been able to strengthen partnerships with friendly countries, particularly in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. These regions, experiencing significant economic growth, have an increasing demand for nuclear power to meet their energy needs.
Rosatom’s success in these markets can be attributed to its ability to provide comprehensive solutions and support throughout the entire nuclear fuel cycle. From uranium mining to waste disposal, the company offers expertise and technology to ensure the safe and efficient operation of power plants. This has fostered trust among its international partners, who view Rosatom as a reliable and responsible supplier.
Furthermore, the geopolitical landscape and economic considerations also play a role in clients’ decision-making processes. While some countries face pressure to comply with Western sanctions and reduce their reliance on Russia, the complex nature of the nuclear fuel industry, as well as the need for stable energy sources, makes changing suppliers a challenging task. Additionally, the expansion of nuclear power capacity is seen as a strategic investment in these countries’ long-term economic and energy security.
Despite the positive developments in non-European markets, the European market remains a challenging environment for Rosatom due to the prevailing political tensions. The company has faced an unfriendly attitude from certain European countries, which limits its growth potential. However, this does not hinder Rosatom’s overall growth strategy, as the company continues to expand its presence and partnerships in other regions that show a more conducive business environment.
In conclusion, Rosatom’s nuclear fuel and equipment deliveries have significantly increased to its ‘friendly’ countries, particularly in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Despite Western pressure and limited growth prospects in Europe, the company has managed to strengthen its international partnerships and gain market share in regions experiencing high economic growth and energy demand. By offering comprehensive solutions and supporting the entire nuclear fuel cycle, Rosatom has established itself as a reliable and responsible supplier in the global nuclear power industry.
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