Kazakhstan to Help Jordan Assess Uranium Reserves

During Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s official visit to Jordan, a memorandum of understanding was signed between Kazakhstan’s Kazatomprom National Atomic Company JSC and the Jordan Uranium Mining Company (JUMCO). The agreement outlines plans for cooperation in uranium exploration and mining in Jordan. Kazatomprom CEO Meirzhan Yusupov emphasized that the partnership with JUMCO presents new opportunities to strengthen Kazakhstan’s position in the global uranium industry. “This memorandum aligns with our strategic goals of efficiently utilizing our resource base. Additionally, studying foreign projects will provide valuable international experience and contribute to the sustainable development of both countries,” he said. Assessing Uranium Potential in Jordan The primary goal of the agreement is to evaluate the potential for uranium exploration and development in Jordan. This includes assessing reserves and analyzing the feasibility of using heap leaching technologies for extraction. Special attention will be given to environmental safety and economic viability. Based on the study results, both parties will decide on the next steps for project development. JUMCO CEO Mohammad Al-Shannagh stated that partnering with the world’s largest uranium producer could accelerate Jordan’s commercial uranium production. “Cooperation with Kazatomprom will open new horizons for us in uranium mining, allowing us to share knowledge, use advanced technologies, and jointly develop marketing strategies,” he said. Joint projects are expected to give new impetus to Jordan’s nuclear industry, creating jobs, attracting local contractors, and improving infrastructure. Kazakhstan’s Expanding Uranium Industry Kazakhstan’s collaboration with JUMCO provides an opportunity to expand its international reach, strengthen economic ties with Jordan, and enhance its influence in the global uranium sector. Kazatomprom is the world’s largest producer of natural uranium, with priority access to one of the world’s most significant resource bases. Since November 2018, Kazatomprom’s shares have been traded on the Astana International Financial Center Exchange and the London Stock Exchange.

Kazatomprom Signs First Uranium Supply Deal with Switzerland

Kazakhstan’s Kazatomprom has signed its first contract to supply natural uranium to Switzerland. The agreement was made with Axpo Power AG and Kernkraftwerk Leibstadt AG (KKL AG), with the uranium designated for use at the Beznau and Leibstadt nuclear power plants. The contract was signed during a visit by Kazatomprom’s delegation to Axpo Power AG’s headquarters in Switzerland. Vladislav Baiguzhin, Chief Commercial Officer of Kazatomprom, described the deal as a significant milestone for the company, expanding its market reach and reinforcing its position as a reliable uranium supplier. He also emphasized that the agreement aligns with Kazatomprom’s strategy to diversify sales channels while supporting global energy security and decarbonization efforts. Dr. Bruno Zimmermann, Head of Nuclear Fuel at Axpo Power AG, underscored the strategic importance of the partnership. He highlighted that nuclear energy plays a crucial role in Switzerland’s low-carbon energy goals and that securing stable fuel supplies remains a top priority. By adding Kazatomprom as a supplier, Axpo and KKL AG are strengthening their ability to ensure a reliable energy supply. Meanwhile, The Times of Central Asia previously reported that Russia’s Uranium One Group, a subsidiary of Rosatom, has withdrawn from its uranium projects in Kazakhstan. This development comes as Kazakhstan is selecting partners to help build its first nuclear power plant. Kazatomprom announced that Uranium One sold its 49.979% share in the Zarechnoye joint venture to SNURDC Astana Mining Company Limited, a firm linked to China’s State Nuclear Uranium Resources Development Co., Ltd. Kazatomprom continues to hold its own 49.979% stake in the project.