Russia and Ethiopia have signed an agreement on nuclear energy cooperation, as announced by the CEO of Rosatom, Aleksey Likhachyov, at the Russia-Africa Summit in St. Petersburg. The agreement outlines the steps that will be taken between the two countries from 2023 to 2025 to explore the possibilities of building a nuclear power plant and a nuclear science and technology center in Ethiopia.
During the summit, the Ethiopian delegation discussed nuclear cooperation with representatives of Rosatom and agreed to collaborate on developing the country’s nuclear industry. The cooperation includes organizing technical tours and seminars, arranging meetings for specialized working groups, and sharing expertise with the aim of establishing nuclear infrastructure in Ethiopia.
In addition, Likhachyov revealed that the BRICS New Development Bank will finance certain Rosatom projects, such as the construction of medical centers and small-capacity nuclear power plants. This financial support from the bank demonstrates its commitment to supporting sustainable energy projects in BRICS countries.
Russia has been actively promoting nuclear cooperation with African countries, aiming to expand its nuclear presence on the continent. Over the past decade, an increasing number of African states have been working on establishing nuclear infrastructure, making it a favorable environment for Russia’s nuclear industry. Ryan Collier, CEO of Rosatom Central and South Africa, highlighted the progress Russia has made in this regard, stating that Egypt is currently in the process of constructing a 4,800-megawatt nuclear power plant, which is expected to provide clean and reliable electricity to the country.
The El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant in Egypt, run by Rosatom, will consist of four units using Russia’s VVER technology, with a capacity of 1,200 MW each. Equipped with generation III+ VVER-1200 reactors, it represents the most advanced nuclear technology available. Egypt expects the plant to operate at full capacity by 2030, contributing significantly to the country’s energy needs.
Russia’s leadership in the nuclear energy sector positions it as a valuable partner for African nations looking to develop their own nuclear industries. Igor Morozov, the head of the Coordinating Committee for Economic Cooperation with African Countries, emphasized Russia’s commitment to supporting African countries in this field. He mentioned the establishment of a training center for nuclear energy specialists in Rwanda and a research and technology center that Rosatom is expected to expand across the entire African continent in the future.
Currently, Rosatom is a key player in the global nuclear energy sector, with a significant number of nuclear power plants under construction worldwide. Out of the 53 reactors under construction as of mid-2022, 20 of them were being built by Rosatom, 17 of which are located outside of Russia. This highlights the trust and reliance that countries place in Rosatom’s expertise and technology.
The agreement between Russia and Ethiopia demonstrates the growing interest in nuclear energy as a reliable and sustainable source of power in Africa. With Russia’s experience and expertise in the nuclear sector, African countries have the opportunity to develop their own nuclear industries and address their energy needs. The cooperation between these countries not only benefits Ethiopia, but also creates a platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration in the nuclear field across the African continent.
In conclusion, the agreement signed between Russia and Ethiopia at the Russia-Africa Summit paves the way for future nuclear energy cooperation between the two countries. With the support of the BRICS New Development Bank and Rosatom’s expertise, Ethiopia has the potential to develop its nuclear industry, contributing to its energy security and sustainable development. Furthermore, Russia’s commitment to supporting nuclear projects in African countries demonstrates its leadership in the global nuclear energy sector and its willingness to share its knowledge and technology. This cooperation sets a positive example for other African nations interested in exploring the benefits of nuclear energy.
Source link
