Prior to the state visit of the President of Uzbekistan to France, a trilateral agreement was signed in Paris between Orano Mining (a French company), ITOCHU (a Japanese corporation), and Navoiyuran (a state enterprise in Uzbekistan). The agreement aims to commence uranium production at the Jongeldi deposit in Navoi region’s Tomdi district by the end of 2025 and expedite geological exploration for ongoing joint projects.
This agreement will allow the parties to combine their capabilities and implement new solutions for project development.
According to the terms of the agreement, foreign companies will be the primary investors in the Jongeldi deposit. To reduce uranium extraction costs and integrate production processes into Navoiyuran’s existing industrial capacities, the state enterprise has been designated as the project’s managing operator.
In addition, the agreement marks the beginning of long-term collaboration between the three major companies in the uranium sector, providing opportunities for investment and joint work in various key areas. These include participation in overseas geological exploration and mining projects, development and implementation of innovative uranium mining technologies, knowledge exchange in geological exploration and uranium extraction, improvement of operational efficiency, and adoption of modern corporate governance systems, ESG principles, and other international standards.
Orano Mining (France) – A leading international company in the nuclear materials sector, offering high-value solutions at all stages of the nuclear fuel cycle, including uranium mining and processing. Committed to safety, innovation, and sustainable development, the company contributes to the global future of nuclear energy.
ITOCHU Corporation (Japan) – One of the world’s top trading and investment companies, involved in significant metals, minerals, energy, and industry projects. The company strengthens its position in the global market by implementing innovative solutions for sustainable development.
G. Khonnazarov, UzA