Opinions & Interviews

Construction of second Belarusian nuclear power plant still open to debate

An archive photo

OSTROVETS, 3 November (BelTA) – The construction of another nuclear power plant in Belarus is still open to debate. Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko made the statement as he met with representatives of employees and construction workers of the Belarusian nuclear power plant, social infrastructure workers and residents of the town of Ostrovets, BelTA has learned.

Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed: “Three years ago as I was launching the first unit, I said that a historical day had come: the age of peaceful atom began. Today we are also a nuclear power because of nuclear weapons. And indeed, by receiving this magnificent facility as a gift ahead of 7 November in the complicated year of 2020, we did the right thing by creating this wonder.”

The president pointed out that benefits of the nuclear energy industry are obvious: it will allow the manufacturing sector and agriculture to work more effectively and will make life of Belarusians more comfortable thanks to cheap electricity.

As he was answering questions from residents of the town, the president remarked that the possible construction of the second nuclear power plant is still open to debate.

“We have to make calculations to determine where we should build it. Building it here may be the cheaper option. Because in addition to building [the nuclear power plant] itself enterprises, which forged and welded parts and components, have been built. Transporting the parts is not a big problem but it will be cheaper to make them on the spot. If we decide to build it… The decision has not been made yet, it is being discussed. But it is good that you’ve realized that we need it, that it is the future. If we decide to build it, then I will report it to you and will consult with you before making such a decision. Today’s supply of electricity will be sufficient not only for the duration of my life. It will be sufficient for your kids, too,” Aleksandr Lukashenko stated. “But who knows how the world will develop? The second nuclear power plant may come in handy. I am in favor of it. This is why we are discussing the possibility.”

The head of state reminded that the construction of the Belarusian nuclear power plant had been funded by credit resources granted by Russia. A considerable part of the Russian loan has not been spent in the end.

“They gave us a very lucrative loan. The day before I talked to Putin. Out of the $10.5 billion they have loaned us we’ve spent only $6 billion. Wisely. We can use the remaining sum to build nearly two units [of a nuclear power plant], as a matter of principle. This is why we can use this source of funding, the money that we’ve saved,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.

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