By Safiyat Muhammed
Global Affairs | The Bureau Newspaper
In a move set to deepen energy cooperation between Moscow and Tehran, Russia has signed an agreement with Iran to construct eight nuclear power plants, according to Iran’s state news agency, IRNA. Four of these plants will be located in the southern city of Bushehr, a site already known for its nuclear activity.
The development was confirmed by Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, in a report published on Monday. This marks another major step in the expanding strategic alliance between the two nations, particularly in the field of nuclear technology.
Russian Credit Line to Fund Expansion
Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad earlier announced in April that Russia would also fund the construction of a new nuclear plant under the terms of the agreement. He disclosed that phases two and three of the Bushehr nuclear facility would be completed using a Russian credit line.
“The construction of new nuclear energy facilities and the completion of phases two and three of the Bushehr power plant using Moscow’s credit line will soon commence,” Paknejad said.
Russia had previously collaborated with Iran in building its first nuclear reactor at the Bushehr site, which has been operational for years under international scrutiny.
Global Concerns Over Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions
The development comes amid growing international concern over Iran’s nuclear activities. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director-General Rafael Grossi recently told the Financial Times that Iran remains his “biggest preoccupation” among nuclear-powered countries.
Grossi’s comments signal the continued global apprehension surrounding Iran’s nuclear intentions, especially as talks to revive the 2015 nuclear deal remain stalled.
The new agreement could heighten tensions with Western powers, who have long accused Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons capabilities under the guise of a peaceful energy program—allegations Tehran consistently denies.
