French President Emmanuel Macron has acknowledged Europe’s dependence on Russian uranium and pointed to Uzbekistan as one of the key alternative suppliers that could help the continent diversify its nuclear fuel imports.

He emphasized the need for the European Union to broaden its sources in order to reduce risks and strengthen energy security, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Macron also mentioned several other major uranium-producing countries, including Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Canada and Australia.

Particular attention is being paid to Uzbekistan because the country holds confirmed uranium reserves and has been actively expanding its export potential. In recent years, Tashkent has intensified cooperation with international companies, positioning itself as a promising partner for Europe in the field of energy security. Supplies from Uzbekistan could help the EU reduce reliance on Russian uranium and reinforce its energy sovereignty.

Macron also stressed that nuclear energy is “a key” to national independence and sovereignty, while playing a crucial role in decarbonization and long-term economic growth. He noted that a meeting of France’s nuclear policy council will take place in the coming days to adopt new decisions based on the country’s national energy strategy.

The inclusion of Uzbekistan among potential alternative uranium suppliers could open new opportunities for the country to strengthen its position in the global uranium market and expand cooperation with Europe.