Russian deputy FM touts Akkuyu nuclear power plant deal

A Russian deal to build a nuclear power plant in Turkey, and to be responsible for its security and safety, training its personnel, and its proper use, will be a project spanning 60 years, said Russian Deputy Prime Minister Igor Sechin yesterday. "It's a unique project," said Sechin at Istanbul's Ciragan Palace, at a seminar on the new Akkuya power plant. "We will provide all guarantees and financing for the project, which costs $10 billion. We will inspire Turkish industry." Secin, alongside Energy and Natural Resources Minister Taner Yildiz, added that much of the plant would be built by Turkish contractors. The deal for the plant was signed in May, and construction is set to begin in 2013.