China and Russia compete for Kazakhstan's "nuclear power" order, with China offering a rock-bottom price!

Kazakhstan, this Central Asian giant, is building its first nuclear power plant, and as a result, China and Russia are putting on a show of "divine combat."

The China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) has thrown down the gauntlet: two HPR-1000 reactors with a total generation capacity of 2.4 gigawatts, priced at $550 million!

What does that mean? Rosatom's Russian counterpart quotes between $1.2 to $1.5 billion for similar projects, making it more than double the cost!

Probably Russia is stunned.

Even Kazakhstan's officials might be stunned: can nuclear power plants also have 618 promotions these days?

But upon closer reflection, China's nuclear technology is no longer what it used to be. The Hualong One (HPR-1000), China's independently developed third-generation nuclear technology, is in high demand from Pakistan and Argentina. Its safety performance is top-notch, capable of withstanding earthquakes and tsunamis, truly the "tank" of the nuclear power world. Even more impressive, China offers to help Kazakhstan develop nuclear fuel cycles and scientific research infrastructure, providing after-sales service that Russia cannot match.

Of course, this is not just about money.

Last year, Kazakhstan suddenly demanded that Rosatom sell stakes in three uranium companies to China, a move that left the international community speechless.

German media hit the nail on the head: Kazakhstan finds Russia "toxic"!

Ever since Russia launched military actions in Ukraine, Western sanctions have been raining down like there's no tomorrow. As a traditional little brother of Russia, Kazakhstan began to feel uneasy—what if one day the West sanctions me too?

At this moment, China appeared, armed with capital and technology.

Kazakhstan's deputy foreign minister, Roman Vassilenko, made it clear: "We want a multi-country consortium; we must not put all our eggs in one basket!"

This nuclear power battle is表面上about business, but behind the scenes, it's about geopolitical博弈.

China is tearing open Russia's traditional sphere of influence with "rock-bottom prices + hardcore technology," while Kazakhstan plays the balancing act between major powers.

No matter who ultimately wins the bid, China's steps in exporting nuclear power are unstoppable.

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1833554613609482/

Disclaimer: This article solely represents the author's personal views.