Bushehr not finalised before end of the year

Only two weeks ago, Russian Atomstroyexport confirmed that it would complete the construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran before the end of the year (EEO week 46). Last week, Russian Energy Minister Sergey Shmatko revised this prospect, saying that due to technical difficulties, the Bushehr reactor would not be taken into operation before the end of this year.

Shmatko stated nevertheless that construction was proceded according to schedule and that Russia would surely meet its obligations towards Iran. Atomstroyexport is constructing Iran's first nuclear power plant. The plant's capacity is 1.000 MW.

EEO Focus: Although Russia officially denies that the delay is related to the negotiation process concerning Iran's uranium enrichment program, the delay might indicate that Russia is drawing nearer to the US position on Iran.