Mali and Russian companies sign agreement to develop nuclear energy infrastructure

Mali’s ruling military junta has sealed a deal with Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom to develop three nuclear energy infrastructure projects, including a Russian-designed low-power nuclear power plant in the country.

A statement by Rosatom on Wednesday provided to Ripples Nigeria said it had met with Mali’s junta leader, Assimi Goita, where negotiations were held with junta officials in charge of the economy, energy and education.

“In addition to discussing a strategic project to build a Russian-designed low-power nuclear power plant in Mali, junta and Rosatom officials talked about a solar power plant and a geological exploration project,” the statement said.

The statement added that meetings were held between Goïta and officials of the State Corporation Rosatom regarding nuclear energy prospects and personnel development.

“On July 2-3, 2024, a meeting was held between the President of the Transitional Period of the Republic of Mali, Assimi Goita, and the Deputy Director General for International Relations, Nikolay Spassky, who informed the President in detail about the progress of the main cooperation projects being implemented in the Republic through the organization.

“The ministerial delegation of the Republic of Mali led by the Minister of Economy and Finance Alousséni Sanou held detailed negotiations.

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“In particular, projects in the field of solar power generation and geological exploration were discussed in detail. Particular attention was paid to the prospects for launching a strategic project to build a Russian-designed low-power nuclear power plant in Mali.

“Evidence of this growing cooperation is the active participation of representatives of nuclear energy companies and various African delegations in various important business events.

“Particular attention is paid to the prospects of launching a strategic project to build a Russian-designed low-power nuclear power plant in Mali.

“As a result of the negotiations, three memorandums of understanding were signed. The document on cooperation in the field of nuclear infrastructure development and the formation of positive public opinion was signed with Bintou Camara, Minister of Energy and Water Resources of the Republic of Mali.

“Bourema Kansaye, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Republic of Mali signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the field of personnel training.

“The parties agreed to continue to maintain close contact and periodically coordinate positions as the cooperation progresses. The cooperation between Mali and Rosatom can be a productive step towards building a sustainable energy future in Africa.”

Mali, Russian firm sign deal to develop nuclear energy infrastructure first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.