Tokayev discusses nuclear power plant construction with atomic energy chiefPresident Kassym-Jomart Tokayev discussed plans for new nuclear plants, staff training and a nuclear security zone at Semipalatinsk with Atomic Energy Agency head Almasadam Satkaliyev on Thursday, his press office said.Satkaliyev gave Tokayev a report on the agency’s main results in 2026 and briefed him on the state of the nuclear industry and nuclear power.They also discussed nuclear science and innovation, and raising the share of local content in industry projects. The talks gave special attention to creating a nuclear security zone at Semipalatinsk improving radioactive waste management and strengthening the legal framework for nuclear and radiation safety.Tokayev ordered officials to keep the development of national nuclear power under special control and to take timely steps to carry out the tasks set by the nuclear industry development strategy.Kazakhstan plans to build several nuclear plants. The first, called Balkhash, will be built by Russia’s Rosatom. A roadmap for building two VVER-1200 reactors was signed in 2025. Construction is expected to take about 11 years and could finish in 2035-2036. Survey work near the village of Ulken on Lake Balkhash began on Aug. 8, 2025.A second plant, called Moiynkum, will have two 1,200-megawatt units and will also be built at Balkhash. China National Nuclear Corporation is considered the priority partner for it.Sites for two more plants are being studied. (ICE ALMATY)

Fonte notizia: INTERFAX