India and France expressed their satisfaction with the advancements achieved in the discussions pertaining to the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project (JNPP). They also welcomed the proposal put forth by Électricité de France (EDF) regarding the training of Indian civil nuclear engineers and technicians for their involvement in projects featuring EPR reactors. The two countries eagerly anticipate reaching an early agreement in this regard.
The EPR represents a third-generation pressurized water reactor design. Its development has predominantly been carried out by Framatome (formerly part of Areva between 2001 and 2017) and EDF in France, as well as Siemens in Germany. In Europe, this reactor design was initially referred to as the European Pressurized Reactor, later internationally recognized as the Evolutionary Power Reactor, but it is now commonly known as the EPR.
In line with India’s Skills India initiative, relevant French organizations will collaborate with their Indian counterparts to strengthen training programs in the nuclear field and facilitate internships for Indian students.
Additionally, both countries have agreed to explore opportunities for establishing a partnership focused on low and medium-power modular reactors, including Small Modular Reactors (SMR) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMR).
The two nations will continue their joint efforts in the development of nuclear technologies through cooperation on the Jules Horowitz Research Reactor (JHR), further enhancing their exchange and collaboration.