Pashinyan outlines the criteria for Armenia's selection of a partner nation for building a new nuclear power facility

YEREVAN, February 11. /ARКА/. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan indicated that the choice of a partner country for the development of a new nuclear power plant will hinge on whether the proposal aligns with the nation's interests.

He remarked that the decision to construct a new nuclear power plant is both strategic and vital, and it must be finalized before the current Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant's extended lifespan concludes (the extension process is currently in progress until 2036 – ed.).

"We are in discussions regarding new nuclear reactor initiatives with Russia, the United States, France, China, and South Korea. It is essential that we ensure the chosen proposal best serves the Republic of Armenia's interests," Pashinyan stated on Wednesday during the government Q7A session in parliament.

The prime minister pointed out that a comprehensive analysis of the nuclear energy market over the long term is crucial when making this decision.

He highlighted that the electricity produced by the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant remains the most affordable in the country's energy framework. He affirmed that all significant aspects related to the new plant's construction will undergo thorough examination.

During US Vice President J.D. Vance's visit to Armenia on February 9-10, a joint document was signed that concluded negotiations on an intergovernmental agreement for cooperation in the peaceful utilization of nuclear energy.

This document establishes the legal foundation for ongoing collaboration in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, particularly concerning licensing and the potential integration of US technology and equipment. The agreement anticipates initial exports of up to $5 billion, along with an additional $4 billion to be allocated for fuel and maintenance.-0-