The National Nuclear Center of Kazakhstan and nuclear export operator Kazatomprom have reached a cooperative agreement recently in which they will further develop the nation’s nuclear energy infrastructure, including non-proliferation efforts, radiation safety, new technology relating to nuclear power generation and medical activities.
They also will facilitate information sharing, training courses and curricula, and the development of new joint research initiatives between the two entities. One particular focus of research cooperation will be in the development of nuclear fuel cycle technology.
The agreement was signed by Kazatomprom Chairman Askar Zhumagaliyev and Nuclear Center Director General Erlan Batyrbekov.
Kazatomprom focuses on managing export operations for uranium and related compounds, metals and nuclear fuel for nuclear power generation. The World Nuclear Association (WNA) said approximately 12 percent of global uranium resources are located in Kazakhstan. The country produced approximately 22,830 tons of uranium ore in 2014.
The WNA also said the country plans to build a Russian nuclear reactor by 2025. It had one nuclear reactor facility in operation between 1972 and 1999.
