On March 13, 2021 expert consultations on the most relevant issues of Kudankulam NPP construction between Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) and JSC ASE were completed. This time they were held in face-to-face format in Mumbai (Republic of India).
“Face-to-face format of consultations was made possible due to proactive approach of Rosatom State Corporation representatives, as well as support and assistance of consular service of the Russian Federation”, noted Andrey Lebedev, Vice President for Projects in India and Perspective Projects. “We are also grateful to the governments of the Republic of India and Maharashtra state for authorization of a face-to-face meeting. It is well known that India ranks the third most coronavirus-affected country in the world. Undoubtedly, it has an impact on our joint activities on Kudankulam NPP construction with the Indian party, but does not stop them”.
The Russian delegation’s visit was aimed at the discussion of issues which are the most important in the current situation. These are implementation progress rate of the second stage and full-scale buildup of works at the third stage of Kudankulam NPP, arrangement of equipment acceptance in the Russian Federation and third countries and agreement of quality assurance plans for manufacturing. Negotaitions in the Republic of India were also attended by representatives of one of the largest Russian suppliers - JSC Power Machines. Issues of opening quality plans for manufacturing of turbine compartments for Units 5,6 were discussed with the Indian colleagues.
The parties acknowledged that despite the ongoing global pandemic of COVID-19, all reasonable measures were taken to continue the construction works, expedite the manufacturing and supply of equipment and working documentation for Kudankulam NPP. Following the negotiations, operational minutes of meeting were signed, which will become a program for further activities. Both parties noted that the meetings were held in a warm and friendly atmosphere and thanked each other for cooperation.
