Putin, Xi announce start of joint Russian-Chinese nuclear project

Russia’s and China’s leaders announced the beginning of a series of joint nuclear energy projects on Monday, and touted the planned construction of several Chinese nuclear power plants with Russian technology.

The Associated Press reported that China’s state media company CCTV broadcast a joint videoconference between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who announced the joint construction of two Russian nuclear reactors at China’s Tianwan and Xudapu power facilities.

Construction of the two reactors is due to be completed in 2026 and 2028, respectively. Putin called the project a major investment in China’s energy security during the videoconference, according to the AP.

“Russian and Chinese professionals are setting in motion a truly signature, flagship joint project,” the Russian leader said, while praising the “powerful state-of-the-art Russian-made nuclear reactors” which he said were “compliant with all the safety regulations and the highest of ecological standards.”

The move brings Beijing and Moscow closer together while simultaneously helping China’s goal of decarbonizing its energy grid.

Xi announced in the fall that China planned to be fully carbon-neutral by 2060.