TASS reported that on November 27, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Kazakhstan at the invitation of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The visit is expected to shape important developments in the energy sector, regional cooperation and Kazakhstan's geopolitical position.
According to The Times of Central Asia (TCA), during the visit, the two sides will discuss nuclear energy. Kazakhstan's Energy Minister Almasadam Satkaliyev said that the country is ready to discuss the construction of nuclear power plants with Russia and other potential partners.
Mr. Satkaliyev stressed that the energy issue is the basis of international cooperation. Kazakhstan has set up an intergovernmental commission to evaluate proposals from different suppliers on a competitive basis.
Kazakhstan's First Deputy Prime Minister Roman Sklyar also stressed the importance of establishing an international consortium for the project.
Speaking in September, Mr Sklyar said political risks and safety concerns would be addressed throughout the process, and he also stressed the need to incorporate cutting-edge technologies from global leaders in nuclear energy.
On November 14, Kazakhstan Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov met with the Director General of the Russian State Atomic Energy Corporation, Rosatom. The meeting focused on cooperation in nuclear energy, quantum technology, digitalization and human resource development.
The construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan has received significant public support, with 71.2% of Kazakh voters in favor.
As Kazakhstan's energy sector relies heavily on old-technology thermal power plants that are no longer meeting the needs of its growing population and economy, power shortages are expected to worsen, especially in developing regions.
A nuclear power plant is the solution to this shortage. Electricity self-sufficiency will reduce dependence on electricity imports as well as achieve carbon neutrality goals.
Still, the initiative is expected to pose both challenges and opportunities for the country's energy independence and regional influence.
The construction of Kazakhstan's first nuclear power plant offers an opportunity to ensure a stable supply of electricity and export surplus electricity, strengthening the country's energy position and reducing dependence on coal.
However, choosing a potential international partner like Rosatom could lead to Kazakhstan's dependence on Russia and make it difficult to position the country as a potential neutral partner, a middle power, and a mediator in conflicts.
