Russia has started constructing Kazakhstan's first nuclear power plant, marking a significant development in Central Asia. According to AFP on Friday (August 8), this move comes as Moscow, Beijing, and Europe compete to expand their influence in Kazakhstan, the world’s top uranium producer.
Kazakhstan has long been under Russia’s sphere of influence, and Moscow aims to maintain this position. However, China has already invested billions through its Belt and Road Initiative in the region.
In a joint statement, the nuclear agencies of Kazakhstan and Russia announced that engineering surveys have begun to select a suitable site and prepare project documentation for the high-capacity nuclear power plant.
Almas Adam Satkaliyev, head of Kazakhstan’s nuclear agency, described the project as a strategic decision, emphasizing that it will serve as a driving force for long-term economic growth across the country.
Kazakh authorities also revealed that China is preparing to build two additional power plants in the country, with further details expected by the end of the year.
Kazakhstan supplies 43% of the world’s uranium demand and is the third-largest supplier of raw uranium to the European Union. Despite this, the country faces a shortage of electricity for domestic use.
The legacy of Soviet-era nuclear tests, which affected approximately 1.5 million people with radiation exposure, has made nuclear power a sensitive issue in Kazakhstan.
The first nuclear power plant is being constructed near the semi-abandoned village of Ulken, on the shores of Lake Balkhash. The project is expected to take several years to complete. Russia’s state-owned nuclear agency, Rosatom, stated that the reactor will have a lifespan of 60 years, with the possibility of extending it by an additional 20 years.
Rosatom is actively involved in nuclear projects worldwide, including in India, Turkey, Egypt, Bangladesh, China, and now Kazakhstan. Russia maintains a dominant position in the global nuclear power industry due to its safety standards, technical expertise, and international partnerships.
Note For Readers:
The CEO handles all legal and staff issues. Claiming human help before the first hearing isn't part of our rules.
Our system uses humans and AI, including freelance journalists, editors, and reporters.
The CEO can confirm if your issue involves a person or AI.
by 
