Remarks by Ambassador John E. Herbst
At the Holtec - Energoatom Contract Signing Ceremony
Kyiv, Ukraine
December 26, 2005
I am very pleased to be here today to witness the contract signing between Energoatom and Holtec International for construction of the Ukraine's Central Spent Nuclear Fuel Storage Facility. This is the first major commercial contract between Energoatom and the United States nuclear industry.
Signing of this contract also indicates that some actions are being taken by the current administration to root out corruption in the energy sector.
I also want to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to Mr. Yuriy Nedashkovsky, President of Energoatom, for his diligent efforts and oversight of the entire process that made this important contract a reality.
The nuclear sector in Ukraine is critical to the energy security of Ukraine as it generates more than half of the country's electricity. Successful completion of the proposed Central Spent Nuclear Fuel Storage Facility will save hundreds of millions of dollars and at the same time will play an important role in ensuring Ukraine's energy independence.
Holtec International is a well-recognized world leader of equipment and technology in the field of storing and transporting spent nuclear fuel. I am confident that based on Holtec's unique capabilities, safe and efficient technology - - not only this facility will be completed on time but also that Energoatom and Holtec will establish a long-term relationship.
Thank you for inviting me to be part of this important event.