News - Russia Proposes Financial Models to Strengthen Nuclear Energy Relations with Armenia

In a significant move to strengthen their long-standing partnership, Russia has extended an offer to Armenia to explore favorable financial models for collaboration in the field of nuclear energy. This was announced by Maria Zakharova, an official spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Emphasizing the robust and mutually beneficial relationships that already exist between the two countries, Zakharova highlighted that Russia is prepared to work closely with Armenia to develop models that would suit the nation's energy requirements. Zakharova stated that, despite attempts by other nations to portray varying models of cooperation, Russia stands out as the only country successfully operating small-scale nuclear power plants. Russia's proven nuclear technology solutions offer a competitive edge across different power ranges, showcasing their sustained role in contributing to Armenia’s energy sovereignty and balance. One example of their cooperation is Russia's involvement in the renovation and restart of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant in 1995. Russia has provided ongoing support through servicing, fuel supply, and implementing projects that have extended the plant's operational life, which is now planned to continue until 2026, and with ongoing work for extension till 2036. Energy security remains a pivotal aspect of this partnership, and Maria Zakharova stresses the importance of responsible attention to these matters, given their direct impact on regional stability. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan recently noted that while choosing international partners for constructing a new nuclear power plant, Armenia will prioritize proposals that align with national interests. This development signals a continued and deepening of ties between Russia and Armenia in the nuclear energy sector, showcasing Russia as a reliable partner over several decades, fully capable of enhancing the region's energy security.