Russia is ready to work with Armenia on preferential financial models for nuclear energy: Zakharova
YEREVAN, February 12. /ARКА/. Russia is ready to explore preferential financial models for cooperation in the nuclear energy sector with Armenia, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said at a press briefing on Thursday.
"Considering the nature of bilateral relations between our countries, we are ready to explore preferential financial models; we have also spoken about this repeatedly with the Armenian side. All these proposals remain on the table, but if you find a completed project of the aforementioned American model, please show it to us," she said.
Zakharova emphasized that Russia and Armenia already have a long-standing and mutually beneficial relationship in this area, which strengthens the energy security of both countries and the region as a whole.
The diplomat noted that these issues are "not a joke." "These are not the kind of issues that can be raised today, then start raising money for them, lay some foundation the day after tomorrow, and then simply abandoned, as they did in America in 2024," Zakharova stated.
On Russian Technologies
According to her, Russia is the only country that already operates small-capacity nuclear power plants.
"We have repeatedly offered our partners proven Russian solutions across all power ranges—small, medium, and large—demonstrating options that would allow nuclear energy to maintain a significant role in the republic's energy balance, thus contributing to energy sovereignty. The competitive advantages of domestic technologies have been presented to the Armenian side on numerous occasions, most recently, for example, on February 6 at a meeting between Rosatom State Corporation Director General Mr. Likhachev and Armenian National Assembly Speaker Mr. Simonyan during his official visit to Russia," she said.
Zakharova stated that this issue has been discussed repeatedly at meetings of the bilateral intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation.
On partnership in the nuclear industry
Russia has been Yerevan's reliable partner in the nuclear industry for decades, Zakharova emphasized.
"In 1995, Russia helped restore and restart the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant. Throughout these years, our country has provided support for its operation, maintenance, and fuel supply. With our assistance, a project to extend its service life until 2026 was implemented, thanks to which the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant remains operational today. We are currently working together on another project—extending the plant's lifespan until 2036," she noted.
On energy security
The Russian Foreign Ministry representative emphasized the importance of energy security issues, which require attention and responsibility.
"I'd like to take an interest in such things from a long-term perspective. We're talking about our shared region, energy security, which can't simply be drawn under and said it will never affect the region's interests," Zakharova concluded.
The day before, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated that when choosing a partner country for the construction of a new nuclear power plant, the Armenian authorities will consider whether the proposal meets the republic's national interests.
About the Armenian-American agreement
During US Vice President J.D. Vance's visit to Armenia on February 9-10, a joint document was signed concluding negotiations on an intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
The document forms the legal basis for further cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, specifically licensing and the possible involvement of US technology and equipment. The agreement provides for exports worth up to $5 billion in the initial phase and an additional $4 billion for fuel and maintenance.
About the proposal Rosatom
Earlier, at a meeting with RA National Assembly Speaker Alen Simonyan, Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev proposed comprehensive cooperation with Armenia in the nuclear energy sector.
The cooperation could include the construction of large, medium, and small-capacity nuclear power plants, as well as non-nuclear projects, Rosatom clarified.
The Armenian side is already reviewing a preliminary feasibility study for the construction of a new 1200 MW unit, developed by Rosatom State Corporation.
On the selection of a nuclear power plant model
David Khudatyan, Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of the Republic of Armenia, stated that the Armenian authorities have decided that the new nuclear power plant will be modular, but the final choice will be made in 2026–2027.
"We continue to study proposals, including with partners from Russia, the United States, China, South Korea, and France," Khudatyan said.
About the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant
The Armenian Nuclear Power Plant (ANPP) is the only nuclear power plant in the South Caucasus region. It is located near the town of Metsamor, approximately 30 km west of Yerevan. The plant is one of the country's key sources of electricity, providing up to 40% of its total output.
The operating life of the existing power unit has been extended until 2026, and work is underway to extend it for another 10 years.
Armenian authorities plan to build a new NPP within 8-10 years. Various options and the experience of partners from the United States, France, China, Russia, and South Korea are currently being studied.
