Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom and Bolivia’s Ministry of Energy signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on the development of industrial and research projects in the lithium industry during the official visit of Bolivian President Evo Morales to Russia.
Rosatom and the Bolivian Ministry of Energy intend to explore opportunities for joint work in the exploration and development of lithium deposits, the exchange of information and research in the field of mining and production of lithium and lithium products.
The previous day, Russian President Vladimir Putin said he saw "good prospects" for nuclear energy cooperation with Bolivia following completion of the Centre of Nuclear Research and Technologies being built in Bolivia by Rosatom.
“This is a unique project: the nuclear reactor will be situated at the height of about 4000 metres above the sea level – the first in the world,” he said. The centre will be equipped with a reactor and multi-purpose experimental gamma-installation, a cyclotron-radiopharmacological complex, engineering structures and various laboratories. Investment in the project will exceed $300 million.
Also on 11 July, Russian nuclear regulator Rostechnadzor and the Bolivian Electricity and Nuclear Technology Supervisory Authority (AETN) signed an agreement to cooperate in the field of nuclear and radiation safety regulation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The agreement defines the areas of cooperation between the two authorities, including the development of a regulatory framework on radiation safety and security, licensing in nuclear operation, and oversight activities. Bolivian Energy Minister Rafael Alarcon confirmed that Bolivia is ready to consider new nuclear projects in co-operation with Russia.
