French Areva proposes to build nuclear research reactor in Azerbaijan
By Nigar Orujova
Azerbaijan's Communications and High Technologies Minister Ali Abbasov has met with a delegation of experts from French company Areva that is involved in the development and production of equipment for nuclear power industry.
Recalling French President Francois Hollande's visit to Azerbaijan, Abbasov said the visit contributed to the expansion of relations between the two countries.
He also said, during Azerbaijan-French business forum held in Baku, the French president emphasized on the cooperation opportunities in the field of nuclear energy and renewable energy capabilities.
Speaking about plans for the development of nuclear technology and research in the field of nuclear energy in Azerbaijan, Abbasov said that National Nuclear Research Center established by the Ministry will use nuclear technologies for peaceful purposes in its future activities.
He added that the country has already begun cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and European Centre for Nuclear Research (CERN) in this field.
Abbasov referred to the research nuclear reactor, which is planned to be built in Azerbaijan. He also talked about the possibility of its use by scientists in the region. Moreover, the minister added that he wants to see the transformation of Azerbaijan into a regional center.
In turn, the Head of the delegation and Areva's Director for work in the field of nuclear energy with the countries of Central Asia, Abbas Jafari Jalali stressed the importance of organizing various trainings for the staff of the National Centre for Nuclear Research, establishing work on organizational and other issues.
The proposals of Areva for the construction of nuclear research reactor in Azerbaijan were discussed at the meeting.
The sides also exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest. It was decided to accelerate the works to expand cooperation.