Japan considers Kazakhstan as the only trusted partner in Central Asia - H.Kayama
The main topic of conversation was related to the prospects of cooperation between the two countries in the field of construction of nuclear power plants (NPPs). - Mr. Hirobumi Kayama, what are the advantages of Japanese nuclear technology over other foreign analogues? - Japan has created its own technology in the nuclear sphere, taking into account the sad experience of accidents at Three Mile Island (USA) and the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. Firstly, the main difference of the Japanese engineering is the timeliness of all planned activities. Secondly, Japan is the leader in quality manufacturing of nuclear reactor pressure vessels of high-strength materials. Therefore, Korea, France, Russia and other countries producing nuclear energy, purchase the component from us. Thirdly, Japanese companies have considerable experience in the implementation of joint projects. For example, "Toshiba" built over 100 nuclear power plants in cooperation with the American company "Westinghouse Electric Company", and "Hitachi" - with "General Electric". There is one important aspect in terms of cooperation between Japan and Kazakhstan - both countries have suffered from nuclear tests (in Japan - Hiroshima and Nagasaki, in Kazakhstan - Semipalatinsk nuclear test site). Our two states are the leaders in the world in the nonproliferation of nuclear weapons. That is why we can share our technology and secrets with Kazakhstan without worrying that you may use them for other purposes. It should be noted that Kazakhstan National Nuclear Center develops peaceful use of atomic energy in conjunction with Japan. - What and under what conditions may Tokyo offer Astana in the framework of the construction of NPP in Kazakhstan? - If Kazakhstan elects Japan as a partner in the field of nuclear power plants' construction, a vast stream of new technologies, professionals, companies etc. will come to your country. It can be the starting point of a new stage of interstate cooperation. For us, cooperation in the nuclear field is very significant in terms of trust, so the construction of NPPs will be a signal to Japanese businesses in other sectors of economy. - What are the plans for the development of Japan's cooperation with countries in the region in the nuclear sphere? - We consider Kazakhstan as the only trusted partner in Central Asia that is able to develop peaceful use of atomic energy. - Mr. Kayama, an agreement in the nuclear sphere should be made at the highest level. Can we expect Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to Kazakhstan? - I am not authorized to answer this question. But I can say that Abe and President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev have already met twice on the sidelines of multilateral forums and summits. - Tell us about your impressions of Kazakhstan? - Kazakhstan is one of my favorite countries. I have been visiting Kazakhstan for ten years as I supervise the department of foreign relations with your country. Initial projects related to uranium ore extraction. And now I would be happy to note that at this stage we are talking about the construction of nuclear power plants. I have been to Almaty, Shymkent and Astana. I am struck by the pace of construction in your capital. Parks near Yesil River banking remind me of Japan. - Thank you for the interview.
