Apart from all its medical and industrial uses, uranium is the thermal power source used in nuclear power plants, of which the world is set to see many in the coming years. With demand set to grow rapidly, Mongolia sets great store by its considerable reserves and has been receiving offers of cooperation from several countries to help develop the sector. Professor S.Enkhbat, Chairman of the Nuclear Energy Agency, tells E.Odjargal where the country stands. 

With how many countries does Mongolia have an MoU on uranium?

The first cooperation and bilateral relation agreement was with the Russian Government. This was followed by MoUs with the Mineral Agency of the Ministry of Economy and Trade in Japan, the Atomic Energy Department of India, and with Areva of France. The most recent MoU to be signed was with the National Nuclear Corporation of China. Talks on cooperation are presently being held with several other countries, including the USA, South Korea and Canada.

Was uranium discussed during the recent visit of the Chinese Premier?

The MoU signed with the National Nuclear Corporation of China contains references to training and exchange programs but no specifics have yet been decided.

In what way is the MoU with China different from those signed with other countries?

All the memorandums are basically similar. All stress cooperation in research and safe technology. In the case of China we shall jointly study the feasibility of setting up a nuclear energy grid, like the one that exists in Europe. This may not happen today, but we must have a vision for tomorrow.  Mongolia has to take big strides in the field of nuclear science studies, and their application to industry. It is not enough to have just academics. We must also have a sizable number of our own professionals.

Unfortunately, at the moment we have almost no proper research facilities in the country as no investment was made in this sector in the last 20 years. We have to make up for many lost years and until such time that we have the right environment and arrangements, our students and scientists should be sent abroad for further studies and training.

Please subscribe to our journal to read more.