Kazakhstan is set to hold a nationwide referendum on construction of a nuclear power plant on October 6, as announced by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during his annual state-of-the-nation address at a joint meeting of Parliament. According to the Head of State, the development of nuclear energy is driven by the growing global energy deficit and the country's need for reliable and environmentally friendly energy sources.
«This type of energy generation can substantially address the fast-rising needs of our economy. To date, nearly 200 nuclear power plants operate in 30 developed and developing countries. It is crucial to think ahead, taking into account our long-term national interests and the specifics of our country. Therefore, I have consistently advocated for a well-considered decision on nuclear power plant construction and extensive public discussion of strategic plans,» said President Tokayev.
According to Kazakh MPs, the issue of constructing a nuclear power plant has been widely discussed in society. During the year, experts and industry representatives have been actively conducting awareness-raising work with the population in all regions of the country. These meetings were held in an open format, such as public hearings, allowing everyone to express their opinions and analyze the data presented by the speakers.
«Few people know that a nuclear reactor has been operating successfully for 60 years in the center of Almaty. We have Kazatomprom with highly skilled specialists, the Ulba Metallurgical Plant, where fuel pellets are produced, and the National Nuclear Center in Kurchatov. Also, we need high value-added enterprises. This can be addressed by building a nuclear power plant,» said Sergey Ponomarev, member of Mazhilis, Lower House of Kazakh Parliament.
Kazakh MPs on directions of President Tokayev’s state-of-the-nation-address
In general, President Tokayev’s state-of-the-nation address clearly outlines the prospects for the country's political and socio-economic development in the coming period and sets a new pace of work for the country’s Parliament, Government and local authorities, according to Kazakh MPs.
«It is crucial to ensure a safe environment for people. President Tokayev has specifically emphasized that attention will be given to the return of assets and consumer rights protection. Also, banking and budgetary responsibility as well as efforts to combat the shadow economy will be enhanced,» said Marat Bashimov, member of Mazhilis, Lower House of Kazakh Parliament.
Web-editor: Гайни Жумабек
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