The United States has initiated new actions aimed at expanding the use of American nuclear technology in Kazakhstan and Armenia. Shauna G. Wilson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Security Programs, recently traveled to these two regions and met with Armenian and Kazakh officials.
Nuclear Agreements with Armenia and Kazakhstan
During Wilson's recent visit, a nuclear cooperation agreement between the United States and Armenia was finalized in February. This agreement was signed during Vice President JD Vance's visit to Yerevan. Additionally, Kazakhstan has signed a contract with the United States for technical training in the nuclear sector, set to commence in late 2025.
Development of Small Nuclear Power Plants and the FIRST Program
U.S. cooperation in this area has primarily focused on the safe construction and operation of small modular reactors (SMRs). Wilson has paid special attention to Kazakhstan's participation in the FIRST program during her meetings in Kazakhstan. This program assists partner countries in developing their nuclear programs to achieve clean energy goals.
According to a report published by Kazakhstan's state news agency, both parties confirmed their mutual willingness to further develop cooperation between Kazakhstan and the United States in the peaceful use of nuclear energy during negotiations on October 27. Kazakhstan currently has plans to build three large nuclear facilities, which will be constructed by Russian and Chinese companies.
Challenges and Opportunities in Armenia
In Armenia, Wilson met with Narek Apitonyan, an official from the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, who leads efforts to develop the country's nuclear capacity. Armenia is exploring options to replace the aging Metsamor nuclear power plant, which has fueled competition between Russia and the United States for securing contracts. After initially expressing enthusiasm for small reactors, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan recently stated that these reactors may not meet Armenia's needs, a news that seems to have positioned Russia better in the competition for building new facilities. However, Apitonyan referenced the role of the United States in Armenia's nuclear future in his statements.
