Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta.  Defense Minister and President-Elect Prabowo Subianto expressed his interest in collaborating with Russia on nuclear energy during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin on Wednesday (31/7/2024).

In a 30-minute open meeting, he discussed with President Putin the potential for cooperation in nuclear energy, specifically modular and main reactors, as part of his energy security priorities once he officially assumes the presidency on 20 October 2024.

Minister Prabowo indicated that nuclear reactors, vital for nuclear power generation, are a focus due to Russia's significant reliance on nuclear energy. However, President Putin did not immediately respond, as a closed meeting is scheduled for Thursday to further discuss bilateral cooperation.

Indonesia currently operates three nuclear reactors primarily for research and education: the Kartini Reactor in Yogyakarta, the Triga 2000 Reactor in Bandung,West Java and the G. A. Siwabessy Multipurpose Reactor in Serpong, Banten

Minister Prabowo expressed a desire to increase Indonesian student enrollment in Russian universities, particularly in medicine and engineering, to address Indonesia's shortage of 160,000 employees holding doctorate degrees. He highlighted opportunities in defense, defense industry, and tourism collaboration between the two nations.

President Putin welcomed Minister Prabowo as a long-time friend of Russia, acknowledging their strong relationship.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)