Kazakhstan, Astana, April 9 / Trend D. Mukhtarov /
The question of constructing a nuclear power plant (NPP) in Kazakhstan is on the government's agenda, chairman of the board of the Sovereign Wealth Fund Samruk-Kazyna, Umirzak Shukeyev, told reporters on Monday.
"Construction of a nuclear power plant is a separate issue which will be soon discussed in the government," said Shukeyev. He reminded the press that Kazakhstan itself produces nuclear fuel and has the world's largest reserves of uranium.
"To have fuel and raw materials and not to have a nuclear power plant is nonsense and this issue will be discussed in government. Another thing is that when choosing an NPP model, we need to be extremely cautious in matters of security," he said.
Two site options for the construction of a nuclear power plant were previously discussed in Mangistau region and close to Lake Balkhash.
"Balkhash or Mangistau, it will still be discussed and we will take into account the views of those people who live there. So the question of a nuclear power plant construction is on the agenda and we must and as soon as possible, make a decision," said Shukeyev .