AKIPRESS.COM - The Uzatom Agency and the Italian company Ansaldo Energia signed a memorandum of understanding, Uzatom press service reported.

The agreement is aimed at developing human and scientific and technical potential, as well as industrial cooperation using advanced technologies and experience of the Italian side.

Ansaldo Energia specializes in the design, production and supply of power equipment, its installation, maintenance, repair and modernization. One of the holding's subsidiaries covers all areas of the nuclear sector: from the design and construction of nuclear power plants to their dismantling and radioactive waste management.

As part of the agreement, Ansaldo Energia and Uzatom intend to develop strategic cooperation in such areas as the design and construction of new-generation nuclear power plants, nuclear waste management and professional training. Particular attention will be paid to small modular reactors (SMRs) as a response to the global demand for affordable, manageable and carbon-free energy.

The signing of the memorandum took place during the visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgi Meloni to Uzbekistan. Following their talks with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the parties concluded a package of bilateral agreements covering key areas of cooperation.