Azernews.Az

By Nigar Orujova

Implementation of a joint project on the nuclear research reactor construction's feasibility in Azerbaijan, by the Institute of Radiation Problems of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been suspended.

"The project, which began in 2009, was supposed to be completed in 2011," Director of the institute Adil Garibov said. "However, it was extended for another two years."

Implementation of the project can not go forward without a political decision by the state and there is no final decision on the project yet, he said.

In addition, Garibov said that construction of the nuclear research reactor needs large financial resources. Construction will cost at least 250-300 million manats (US $1 is 0.7814), and the Azerbaijan government will finance the project.

"All the work, which should be done within the framework of the project on our part and the agency, has been done," he said.

Garibov noted that staff training in the nuclear field is underway by means of the IAEA and Azerbaijan already has its staff working at the reactor.

Construction of the reactor is in an area near Baku. The location for the construction of the reactor is based on international experience. It is located away from residential areas.

The site was studied geologically and found suitable for the construction of the facility.
Currently, there is no need for a nuclear power plant in Azerbaijan with its plentiful supply of oil and gas. However, there is a high possibility of construction of such plant in the future.

In the field of nuclear energy, Azerbaijan cooperates with South Korea, France, Russia and other countries. It conducts joint research with specialists of these countries to study innovations in nuclear technology.