Canada, Kazakhstan to cooperate on nuclear energy

Canada's Trade Minister Stockwell Day and Kazakhstan's Energy Minister Sauat Mynbaev jointly announced Thursday the conclusion of negotiations for a bilateral nuclear cooperation agreement.

Their respective governments, however, must still finalize the legal text prior to signing and implementing the pact.

"This agreement will open up the civil nuclear market to Canadian companies, who have a full array of products and services to offer Kazakhstan's growing market for nuclear energy," said Day in a statement during a visit to Kazakhstan.

"Given its expertise in nuclear energy, Canada will continue to play a growing role in this energy-rich country, especially in oil and gas and uranium extraction, as well as in the supply and service of pipeline equipment."

As well, the pact ensures that all nuclear material, equipment and technology transferred by Canada to Kazakhstan will be used "only for peaceful, non-explosive purposes," said the Canadian government.

AFP American Edition