Russia enhances nuclear collaboration with Niger

(MENAFN) Russia and Niger have formalized a collaboration to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy, including plans to build power generation infrastructure in Niger, where nearly 80% of the population currently lacks electricity access. This agreement was announced after Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilev’s official visit to Niamey, where he was accompanied by government officials and business leaders.

Tsivilev emphasized that Russia’s role goes beyond uranium mining, aiming to develop a comprehensive nuclear energy system in Niger. This effort includes constructing power plants accessible to all citizens, expanding cooperation in atomic medicine, and jointly training specialists in the nuclear field.

During his visit, Tsivilev met with Niger’s transitional president Abdourahamane Tchiani, Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine, and Mines Minister Ousmane Abarchi. They discussed establishing a Russian-Nigerien intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation, which the Russian Energy Ministry said would enhance bilateral relations and structure future collaboration.

This partnership is part of Russia’s expanding engagement with African nations in areas like energy, defense, infrastructure, and education. Recently, Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear company, signed a similar agreement with Mali to develop nuclear projects focused on energy, healthcare, agriculture, and training. Additionally, Burkina Faso agreed to build a nuclear power plant with Russian assistance after a request from its interim leader to President Putin at the Russia-Africa summit last year.

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