Tehran:The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) has announced that it is in the final stages of signing a protocol with Russia to accelerate the construction of small modular reactors. This cooperation aims to advance Iran's nuclear capabilities through the collaboration with Moscow.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Behrouz Kamalvandi, the spokesperson for the AEOI, highlighted that Iran's nuclear industry has attained full maturity and self-sufficiency in constructing nuclear power plants. However, he noted that political pressures have hindered the progress of some nuclear projects, specifically mentioning the Darkhovin power plant in Ahvaz, which was targeted during a recent conflict.

Globally, nuclear power generation accounts for about 400,000 megawatts, with Iran contributing approximately 1,000 megawatts. Kamalvandi stated that this global nuclear capacity is expected to triple as part of efforts to address environmental concerns. The Bushehr nuclear power plant has notably reduced the emission of approximately 86 million tons of pollutants and conserved 132 million barrels of oil.

Kamalvandi emphasized the necessity for clean energy development, citing nuclear energy as a crucial option. He observed a global trend of countries increasingly turning to nuclear energy to meet their clean energy requirements.