Rosatom says in talks with several African states on access to lithium, uranium deposits

MOSCOW, October 15 (Sputnik) – Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom is negotiating with several African countries on access to lithium and uranium deposits, Rosatom head Alexey Likhachev said on Tuesday.

“Rosatom pays special attention to cooperation with African countries. Documents on cooperation in the peaceful use of atomic energy have been signed with a number of countries on the continent, negotiations are underway on access to lithium and uranium deposits, and African students study at Russian universities according to Rosatom’s quota,” Likhachev said at a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He added that Rosatom is fully independent of imports, and external challenges related to technologies and equipment have not impacted its projects.

“Of course, we are import-independent, so all challenges related to import substitution have not caused economic damage to our projects,” Likhachev said.

Likhachev also said that Rosatom’s international projects are on track, while business with friendly countries will generate up to 80% of Rosatom’s foreign revenue in 2024.

“The share of revenue from friendly countries is expected to reach 80% this year,” The Rosatom chief said.

Rosatom expects to achieve $18 billion in foreign revenue by the end of 2024.