The French government is set to provide Kazakhstan with the Ground Master 400 air defense radar system, a move aimed at bolstering the sovereignty of the Central Asian nation, France24 reports. These agreements were reached during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Astana.
The Ground Master 400 radar system is designed for anti-aircraft purposes and has the capability to detect a variety of aerial targets, including small drones. Remarkably, this system is contained within a single unit weighing less than ten tons.
In addition to the radar system deal, France's energy corporation EDF is set to participate in the tender for contracting the construction of Kazakhstan's first nuclear power plant. Three other companies, namely China's CNNC, Korea's KHNP, and Russia's Rosatom, are also vying for this project. It's important to note that the decision on the construction of the nuclear power plant is pending a national referendum.
Kazakhstan is a significant partner for France, surpassing even its geographical neighbor, China, in terms of the volume of investments made by Paris in Astana. The prominent role played by the energy giant TotalEnergies contributes to this economic relationship.
Official data reveals that Kazakhstan is a vital supplier, meeting nearly 40% of France's uranium requirements.
During Macron's visit, various agreements were signed, covering sectors such as aviation, pharmaceuticals, and education. Of particular importance was the declaration of cooperation in the realm of strategic minerals. This agreement is noteworthy due to the disruption in uranium supply from Niger to France following a military coup in Niger. As a result, France is exploring alternative avenues to source vital raw materials, with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan emerging as promising prospects, given their leading roles in global uranium production.
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