ASTANA, Kazakhstan, October 23. Support for the construction of a nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan is a clear indication that the Kazakh people are committed to progress in crucial areas affecting the country's future, said President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Trend reports.
Speaking at the official ceremony for the presentation of state awards on the occasion of Republic Day, the president highlighted the strong support for the construction of a nuclear power plant, following a recent referendum in which over 70 percent of citizens voted in favor of the project.
"This decision confirmed that in pivotal situations, our nation chooses progress," he stated, underscoring the significance of the project in the context of Kazakhstan's broader energy strategy.
Tokayev also reiterated one of the fundamental tenets of the nation’s governance: "diverse opinions – united nation." This approach has fostered an environment where public consensus on major national projects is prioritized, ensuring that the voices of citizens are heard in shaping the country’s future.
The urgency of the energy deficit issue was a central theme in the President's remarks. He emphasized that the growing energy shortfall poses a significant challenge to Kazakhstan's economic development and overall quality of life for its citizens. "If it is not addressed in a timely manner, it will hinder the development of our economy and lower the quality of life for citizens," he cautioned.
To recap, on October 6, Kazakhstan held a referendum on the construction of a nuclear power plant.
In 2023, Kazakhstan's Ministry of Energy announced that four companies were leading contenders for the nuclear plant project: China's CNNC, South Korea's KHNP, France's EDF, and Russia's Rosatom. International organizations, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), will also be involved in providing additional oversight.