Armenia says ready to extend nuclear plant’s lifetime by 10 years

PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenia has taken necessary measures to extend the lifetime of its nuclear power plant until 2036, Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan told Rafael Mariano Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), on Monday, May 20.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Minister's working visit to Vienna.

During the meeting, the two commended the effective cooperation and active dynamics formed between Armenia and the IAEA, which is also facilitated by regular high-level visits and meetings.

A number of issues on the Armenia-IAEA agenda were discussed. Taking into account the modern challenges and the growing role of nuclear energy in the current conditions, the importance of participation of the Foreign Minister of Armenia in the International Conference on Nuclear Security and the main emphasis made in his remarks was highlighted. Views were exchanged on projects implemented in the energy and healthcare sectors, particularly in the fields of oncology and radiation medicine.

The safe and secure operation of the Armenian nuclear power plant in accordance with the IAEA recommendations and standards was touched upon. Mirzoyan noted that, based on the importance of nuclear energy and national priorities, Armenia has taken necessary measures to extend the lifetime of the nuclear power plant until 2036 while exploring new possibilities. In this context, Minister Mirzoyan highly appreciated the support and mutually beneficial cooperation provided by the IAEA.

Issues on the regional security situation were also discussed at the meeting.