DUSHANBE, July 10, 2013, Asia-Plus -- In a report released at a  news conference in Dushanbe,  Tajik Main Geology Directorate  Head Azim Ibrohim noted on July 9 that Areva Mines, which is France’s largest uranium mining producers, is interested in cooperation with Tajik Main Geology Directorate.

“The Government is currently considering the package of documents on cooperation with Areva,” Tajik chief geologist said, noting that the draft memorandum of cooperation had been considered and endorsed by all relevant ministries and organizations, including the Tajik Agency for Nuclear and radioactive safety.

According to him, the French company is going “to carry out certain revision works and if they find any appropriate object, they will apply to the government for license.”

Areva Mines is one of subsidiaries of Areva SA, which is a French public multinational industrial conglomerate headquartered in the Tour Areva in Courbevoie, Paris. Areva SA is mainly known for nuclear power, although it also pursues interests in other energy projects.  Its nuclear technology subsidiary, Areva NP, was created by absorbing the nuclear business line of German company Siemens; it has developed the EPR, an advanced 3rd generation pressurized water nuclear reactor.