Russia is proposing collaboration with Indonesia in the realm of nuclear power generators, offering assistance that spans potential financing to workforce training. The Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, Lyudmila Vorobieva, highlighted Moscow's interest in aiding the Southeast Asian nation in harnessing nuclear energy.
Vorobieva noted that a significant portion, 20 percent, of Russia's current electricity output is sourced from nuclear plants. She emphasized Russia's position as the home of the world's inaugural nuclear power facility, located in Obninsk, which ceased operations in 2002 after running for 48 years. Expressing readiness to support Indonesia whenever it decides to incorporate nuclear power generation, Vorobieva emphasized Russia's extensive experience in this energy domain during a Jakarta press briefing.
She asserted that Russian nuclear plant safety measures currently surpass those of the sites afflicted by catastrophic incidents like Chornobyl and Fukushima. Vorobieva suggested that smaller reactors might suit Indonesia's archipelagic landscape, mentioning the technology of floating nuclear plants, which Russia already operates.
Vorobieva highlighted Russia's involvement in global nuclear power plant initiatives, citing the example of financing 90 percent of Bangladesh's $12.65 billion Rooppur nuclear power plant project, repayable over 28 years with a 10-year grace period. Positing that a nuclear power plant could contribute to Indonesia's vision of a green capital in Nusantara due to its minimal emissions, Vorobieva stressed that Russia possesses the technology to manage nuclear waste effectively. Russia aims to aid in the development of these power plants and offer expertise to train Indonesian personnel in operating the technology.
However, Vorobieva emphasized that the decision rests with the Indonesian government, which is exploring various options for nuclear power, not limited to Russia. Economic ties between the two countries were also mentioned, showcasing Russian investment in Indonesia and the significant trade volume between them.
