Armenian authorities have confirmed cooperation with Western contractors on upgrade work at the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant, marking a parallel track alongside existing collaboration with Russian specialists.

The work includes technical support and equipment supplies aimed at strengthening nuclear safety at the facility, The Caspian Post reports via TASS.

The European Union has been actively involved in supporting Armenia’s nuclear safety program, including additional stress tests and safety enhancement measures. The initiative is part of broader EU assistance aimed at improving operational resilience and emergency preparedness at the plant.

As part of this support, alternative water supply equipment funded by the EU and supplied by Slovak company VÚEZ has successfully passed factory and acceptance tests, confirming compliance with technical requirements.

An acceptance commission-including station employees, an EU consultant, and a representative of the European Commission-participated in the testing process.

The EU said its support for Armenia’s nuclear safety includes technical expertise and modern equipment designed to enhance protection in the event of severe accidents.

At the same time, Russia remains involved in extending the operational life of the Metsamor plant through cooperation between the Armenian government and Rosatom subsidiary Rusatom Service. A decision on the extension was made in December 2023 following a meeting of the Armenia-Russia intergovernmental commission.

The Armenian government has allocated around $65 million for a program extending the operation of the plant’s second power unit until 2036.