African state interested in nuclear cooperation with Russia – media
Namibia considers Russia a reliable partner and is interested in cooperating with it in a variety of fields, including nuclear energy, the vice chancellor of the University of Namibia (UNAM) has stated, according to the African Initiative news agency.
Frednard Gideon reportedly made the remarks at the ‘Russia-Africa: Nuclear Education—Potential for Successful Regional Development’ forum, which took place on Friday at Peoples’ Friendship University (RUDN) in Moscow.
“Namibia is the world’s fourth-largest producer of uranium. We started mining it in 1976. Uranium is produced, but it is immediately exported. Many foreigners come to Africa and take everything,” Gideon is quoted as saying.
“Russia is a reliable and equal partner. That is why we are interested in cooperation,” the Vice Chancellor added.
The Southern African country and Moscow established diplomatic relations on March 21, 1990, and have since developed cooperation in the political, economic, trade, and humanitarian spheres.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced following talks with his Namibian counterpart Peya Mushelenga last March that the two countries are aiming to boost trade and investment in various sectors. Lavrov highlighted opportunities for cooperation in mineral resources, energy, agriculture, tourism, and healthcare.
In November, Mushelenga told RT on the sidelines of the Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum that a joint technical team has been set up to explore geophysics and geochemistry in order to unearth some potential minerals.
Namibia.
Russia’s presence in Africa has grown in recent years, with several countries referring to Moscow as a trustworthy ally, despite accusations from some Western governments, including France, that the Kremlin is pursuing a predatory agenda on the continent.
On February 19, the Russian government announced an agreement with Ethiopia to develop cooperation in the use of nuclear technology for “peaceful purposes.”
Speaking at the nuclear education forum on Friday, South African lawyer Nkazimulo Moyeni said, “Russia remains a reliable partner that shares technology and knowledge.”
“The topic of nuclear energy is stigmatized. We must show that it is not only a weapon but also a tool for peaceful development that can save lives and improve the quality of life for people across the African continent,” Moyeni said.
The event, organized by RUDN and the Russian nuclear energy giant Rosatom, has been taking place since 2020 and aims to promote nuclear education in partner countries, as well as increase interest and trust in nuclear technology.
