The Mazhilis, the Lower House of the Kazakh Parliament, has ratified an agreement on the transboundary transportation of radioactive materials across the CIS. The document is aimed at recognition of permits and unified approaches to ensuring safety when transporting such cargo across state borders. The new rules are intended to eliminate unreasonable delays and provide for coordinated joint actions by CIS countries to ensure stable transport operations. As Almassadam Satkaliyev noted, the draft law is being considered at a time when Kazakhstan is consolidating its role as a hub in the global nuclear industry. Last year, the country produced more than 23,000 tonnes of uranium, 10% more than the previous year. Additionally, Kazakhstan serves as an important transit hub.
«The Head of State emphasized that the development of nuclear energy and nuclear technologies is one of the key areas for ensuring energy security, scientific and technological progress, and the country’s international commitments in the peaceful use of atomic energy. In this context, Kazakhstan is consistently developing a modern regulatory and legal framework that meets high international safety standards, which adds further relevance to the ratification of this agreement,» said the Chairman of the Kazakh Atomic Energy Agency Almassadam Satkaliyev.
Second nuclear power plant to be built in Almaty region
According to the head of the agency, a potential site has also been identified for the construction of the country’s second nuclear power plant, which will also be located in the Zhambyl district of the Almaty region. Almassadam Satkaliyev explained that this choice was driven by the energy deficit in the south. In the event of disruptions or overloads, this would pose risks to energy security. Therefore, locating two nuclear power plants in the area is a strategic decision. It will help balance the country’s energy system and reduce dependence on transit.
«We are conducting negotiations with all participants of the process. The final decision in favor of the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) has not been made. All matters related to the contractor’s work, technical solutions, and the attitude of Kazakh citizens toward a particular vendor will be fully taken into account when making decisions,» Satkaliyev added.
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