ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 5. Kazakhstan looks to France for strategic investments in nuclear energy, said President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at a recent Kazakhstan-France investment roundtable, Trend reports.
He outlined potential areas for deepening economic cooperation, emphasizing the role of energy and advanced technology.
"Energy has always been a cornerstone of our cooperation," Tokayev remarked, highlighting Kazakhstan’s critical role as a major supplier of oil and uranium to the European Union. "Astana is committed to supporting France’s energy sovereignty, and we look forward to increased engagement from French industry in Kazakhstan, which will help introduce cutting-edge technologies into our production sectors."
Kazakhstan, the world’s leading uranium producer, and France, with its extensive experience in nuclear technology, share a unique opportunity for collaboration in civil nuclear energy. President Tokayev proposed advancing cooperation in this field, which could significantly benefit both nations.
Meanwhile, on October 6, 2024, Kazakhstan held a referendum on constructing the country’s first nuclear power plant. The proposal received strong support, with over 71 percent voting in favor.
Following the referendum, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stated that the nuclear plant should be developed by an international consortium. Potential technology suppliers being considered include China, South Korea, Russia, and France.