Vietnam is reigniting its nuclear energy ambitions through a new partnership with Russia, as both countries agreed to accelerate talks on building nuclear power facilities in the Southeast Asian nation.
In a joint statement released after Vietnamese President To Lam’s official visit to Moscow, the two governments committed to quickly finalizing and signing agreements that would see Russia assist in the development of nuclear plants in Vietnam, Reuters reported on 12 May.
These facilities will be built using advanced technologies and will adhere strictly to safety standards for nuclear and radiation protection.
The move signals Vietnam’s renewed commitment to diversifying its energy sources amid rising demand and rapid economic growth.
The country had previously shelved its nuclear power plans nearly ten years ago, citing financial and safety concerns. Now, with energy needs climbing, nuclear is back on the table as part of Vietnam’s long-term power strategy.
Government plans indicate that Vietnam aims to bring its first nuclear plants, capable of generating up to 6.4 gigawatts, online between 2030 and 2035. Officials have been in discussions with several nations, including Japan, South Korea, France, the US, and Russia, to explore opportunities for collaboration in the nuclear sector.
In addition to nuclear cooperation, the joint statement outlined plans to deepen bilateral ties in oil and gas. Russia will supply Vietnam with crude oil and liquefied natural gas, while both sides will support the expansion of their national energy companies across each other’s markets.
