Putin Hosts IAEA Chief Grossi, Discusses Nuclear Energy & Global Ties in Moscow

Moscow's Diplomatic Engagements

• 💡 Russian President Vladimir Putin held late-night bilateral meetings in Moscow following a global atomic forum, discussing nuclear cooperation, energy, and political ties.
• 🤝 These extensive talks involved world leaders and international officials, underscoring Moscow's push to reinforce partnerships across various regions.

Key Bilateral Discussions

• 🌍 Putin met with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abi Akmed, recalling historic ties and discussing humanitarian grain aid, with an invitation extended for a future summit in Addis Ababa.
• 📈 Discussions with Myanmar's leadership focused on growing trade, including Russian exports of fertilizers and fuel, and Myanmar's agricultural produce, alongside the opening of new consulates.
• 🇦🇲 The final meeting was with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinan, centering on the Metamor nuclear power plant and potential new projects like small modular reactors.

IAEA and Nuclear Energy

• ⚛️ Putin held talks with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the IAEA, where Grossi praised Russia's role in the nuclear sector and confirmed his bid for UN Secretary General.
• 📜 Grossi also reiterated the IAEA's support for Russia's proposal to maintain limits under the New START treaty, provided the United States reciprocates.
• 🇷🇺 Putin emphasized Russia's founding role in the IAEA since 1957 and its active collaboration in nuclear safety, international projects, and global security.

Russia's Global Nuclear Influence

• ⚡ Grossi acknowledged that Russia, through Rosatom, plays a leading role in nuclear energy development in many countries across Asia and Africa.
• 🛠️ The Metamor nuclear power plant in Armenia, a symbol of the country's sovereignty, has undergone safety upgrades by Russia's Rosatom, extending its operational life for decades.
• 🌐 These meetings collectively highlighted Moscow's ongoing influence in the global nuclear energy sector and its strategic international relations.