Ghana says Russia to back 2,000 MW nuclear plant, deepen ties

Ghana Partners with Russia for 2,000 MW Nuclear Power Plant, Deepening Ties

Strategic Collaboration Between Ghana and Russia

Energy Security and Industrialization

Oct 31 (Reuters) - Russia has agreed to work with Ghana on developing a 2,000-megawatt nuclear power plant following talks at the Russia-Africa Summit, Ghanaian Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said on Saturday.

• The project is aimed at strengthening energy security and industrialization, Ablakwa said in a statement on X.

Russia-Africa Summit and Nuclear Cooperation

Rosatom's Engagement in Africa

• The announcement came a day after Russia's state nuclear corporation, Rosatom, said it was in talks with four African countries, including Ghana, on large nuclear power projects.

Summit Background

• First held in 2019, the Russia-Africa Summit is part of a concerted push by Moscow to deepen economic ties with Africa through energy cooperation.

Defense and Security Agreements

Military Pact

• The two countries also agreed to deepen defense ties through a new pact covering assets for Ghana's military.

Stance on Ukraine Conflict

• Ablakwa said Russian President Vladimir Putin had barred the participation of Ghanaians in Russia's war in Ukraine, including through irregular recruitment or voluntary enlistment.

Additional Commitments

Agricultural Support

• Other commitments included support for Ghana's agriculture sector, and increased scholarships for Ghanaian students in Russia.

Reporting Credits

(Reporting by Ananya Palyekar in Bengaluru; Editing by David Gregorio)