(MENAFN) Russia and Niger have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen cooperation on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, focusing on developing power infrastructure in the energy-deprived West African country. The agreement was signed during a high-level visit to Niamey by Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilev, accompanied by government and business officials.

The deal, signed by Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom and Niger’s Energy Ministry, aims to address Niger’s dire electricity shortage—nearly 80% of the population lacks access to power.

“Our task is not just to participate in uranium mining, we must create a whole system for the development of peaceful atom in Niger,” Tsivilev stated, emphasizing plans for electricity generation, atomic medicine, and workforce training.

Tsivilev also met with Niger’s transitional president Abdourahamane Tchiani, Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine, and other top officials. Talks included forming a Russian-Nigerien intergovernmental commission to oversee trade and economic cooperation.

Russia’s Energy Ministry described the partnership as a strategic step toward strengthening bilateral ties. “The countries consider each other important partners,” it said, noting the commission would formalize and expand collaboration.

The agreement is part of Russia’s broader push to deepen relationships across Africa, including in the fields of energy, defense, infrastructure, and education.

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