Moscow, April 5, 2025 — Bolivia has taken a significant step in its nuclear energy strategy by signing a memorandum of cooperation with Russia on the management of spent nuclear fuel. The agreement, finalized during Hydrocarbons Minister Alejandro Gallardo’s official visit to Moscow, will see collaboration carried out through a Russian-designed research reactor developed by Rosatom, part of Bolivia’s Nuclear Research and Development Center in El Alto.
“This is a crucial agreement that allows us to manage spent nuclear fuel in line with international law. Russia’s extensive experience in this field supports our long-term collaboration, which began in 2016 with the peaceful use of nuclear energy,” Gallardo stated, according to a release from the Ministry of Hydrocarbons.
The deal is part of Bolivia’s broader strategy to diversify its energy matrix and strengthen key sectors such as nuclear energy, lithium, and hydrocarbons. Officials emphasize that safe and efficient handling of spent fuel is vital for leveraging nuclear technology within the country.
In addition to the nuclear cooperation, Gallardo highlighted progress with Uranium One Group to build an industrial-scale lithium plant with an annual capacity of 14,000 tons of lithium carbonate. The project is expected to benefit the resource-rich Potosí region.
Bolivia also reiterated its aspiration to become a full member of the BRICS economic bloc, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Gallardo affirmed that joining BRICS would open new avenues for trade and economic development.