The Armenian government is actively pursuing partnerships to construct a new nuclear power plant that will replace the aging Metsamor facility. During a parliamentary session, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan confirmed that negotiations are underway with multiple nations. He stated that the government has already decided to move forward with a “small modular” reactor as the replacement for Metsamor.
Pashinyan emphasized the importance of selecting a partner based on economic rather than political considerations. “Now the next question is: with whom will we build, with whom will we cooperate?” he asked. He named five countries currently engaged in discussions: Russia, the United States, China, France, and South Korea. The Prime Minister made it clear that the decision will focus solely on which proposal offers the best commercial and economic benefits.
Negotiations and International Interest
In the context of these discussions, Pashinyan’s recent visit to Moscow in late September 2023 highlighted the strong interest from Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin, who have been advocating for Rosatom, the Russian state nuclear corporation, to secure the contract. This push reflects Russia’s ongoing influence in Armenia, particularly in the energy sector.
Simultaneously, Armenian officials announced their efforts to finalize a “123 agreement” with the United States. This agreement aims to facilitate nuclear cooperation and the transfer of sensitive technologies, potentially opening new avenues for collaboration with American firms.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the deteriorating condition of the existing Metsamor nuclear plant. Currently, it has a maximum extended lifespan of about another decade, prompting the government to accelerate its plans for a replacement facility.
As Armenia navigates this critical transition, the outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the country’s energy landscape and its future economic stability. The government appears committed to ensuring that the choice of contractor aligns with Armenia’s long-term goals while considering the geopolitical implications of its decisions.
With discussions still in progress, the coming months will reveal which nation will ultimately be chosen to partner with Armenia in this vital infrastructure project.
