HCMC – Vietnam is considering nuclear power development cooperation with Assystem, one of leading independent nuclear engineering groups in Europe and the world.
Ambassador to France Trinh Duc Hai met Frédéric Cheneau, vice president for International Business Development at Assystem, in Paris on March 16 to explore how the French corporation could support Vietnam’s nuclear power development plan, the Vietnam News Agency reported.
Their talks centered on Vietnam’s push to diversify energy sources while maintaining a balance between economic growth, energy security and sustainability targets. Nuclear power is under study as a potential baseload source to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support the shift toward cleaner energy.
Hai outlined conditions for any future program, including strict safety and security standards, environmental safeguards, workforce development and a legal framework aligned with international practices. He indicated that any rollout would be gradual and subject to public consensus.
The ambassador also signaled openness to foreign partnerships in civilian nuclear energy, particularly with companies that can transfer technology and expertise while supporting domestic capacity.
Cheneau described the nuclear program as a multi-decade decision with implications for energy security and economic development. He pointed to the importance of choosing appropriate technology and project models early in the process.
Assystem could assist in negotiating contracts with technology suppliers, helping structure financial, technical and legal terms, he noted.
The company proposed creating a joint technical unit in Vietnam, operating for 10 to 15 years, to support the nuclear program. The unit would combine international specialists with Vietnamese engineers and include training both locally and abroad.
Cheneau is scheduled to visit Vietnam next week to continue discussions with relevant ministries. Both sides agreed to maintain dialogue to identify possible cooperation frameworks.
