Czechia is set to enhance its partnership with the United Kingdom in the field of nuclear energy, particularly focusing on the development of small modular reactors (SMRs). This decision was announced by Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala following a meeting with his British counterpart Rishi Sunak in Granada.
During the European Political Community summit, Fiala expressed his country’s keen interest in collaborating on specific projects related to SMRs. Czechia, which already operates two conventional nuclear power plants, is planning to expand its nuclear energy capacity. This expansion includes adding new units to existing plants and introducing small modular reactors, with the first SMR expected to be operational by 2032.
Czechia’s commitment to nuclear energy is evident in its continuous efforts to secure a favorable position for the sector in future EU legislation. Fiala emphasized the importance of nuclear energy at a round table on energy and climate change in Granada.
In addition to discussions with Sunak, Fiala also met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to address challenges in the automotive industry, a sector crucial to both countries. The issue of irregular migration was a primary topic in Fiala’s meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, as Italy faces a surge in arrivals in Lampedusa. Czechia, dealing with its own people smuggler problem, has implemented border controls with some neighboring countries.
Fiala also reaffirmed Czechia’s strong support for Ukraine in a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
For more detailed information, you can read the original article on Euractiv.