by Giuseppe Gagliano –
Kazakhstan is establishing itself as a world leader in the production and export of uranium, a crucial resource for the French nuclear industry, which is currently in the process of strengthening its fleet of nuclear reactors. France, which previously depended on Niger for 20% of its uranium, is now forced to reconsider its sources following the coup in Niamey and the resulting international sanctions, as well as the change in attitude of Niger’s new government towards French uranium mining, seen as a remnant of neocolonialism.
In this complex geopolitical and economic context, French President Emmanuel Macron is heading towards Kazakhstan, a nation that already covers 27% of French uranium imports and holds 12% of global resources of this metal. This move aims not only to guarantee France’s energy security, but also to support and expand economic interests in the Asian country, where 170 French companies already operate.
Among the various projects in sight, there is the development of nuclear reactors for a future power plant in Kazakhstan, an initiative in which EDF is particularly interested. Proposals are also being considered for the construction of a wind farm in the south of the country and for the implementation of industrial gas production projects led by Air Liquide.
These agreements not only strengthen France’s economic position but also its geopolitical influence in a strategic region. Kazakhstan, bordering Russia and China and located close to Iran, stands as a credible interlocutor and potential mediator in dialogues with these great powers, as well as acting as a cultural and religious crossroads, hosting the largest interreligious dialogue and having a moderating role in the international Islamic panorama.
At a time when France is observing with concern the repercussions of tensions in the Middle East, Macron is trying to strengthen relations with Kazakhstan and support President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, not only for energy issues but also to prevent the possible importation of conflicts religious on French territory.
