PRESS RELEASE

The Russian-supported Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant project in Iran is completed. Its inauguration ceremony took place on September 12, attended on the Russian side by Energy Minister Sergey Shmatko and Rosatom State Corporation CEO Sergey Kiriyenko and on the Iranian side by Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi, Energy Minister Majid Namjoo and head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization Fereydoon Abbasi-Davani.

The construction of the plant began in 1975 by German experts, but in 1979 the works at the facility were suspended. On August 25, 1992 a cooperation agreement was signed between the Governments of Russia and the Islamic Republic of Iran to build a nuclear power plant in Iran, whereby Russia's OAO Atomstroyexport embarked on its practical realization. In the course of its construction and putting in operation the priority was given to ensuring the safety and reliable functioning of the station.

The Bushehr project is exemplary in terms of strict adherence to the nuclear nonproliferation regime. During the entire period of operation of the plant, fuel will be delivered by Russia on the conditions of its subsequent return. Furthermore, supply and the return of fuel will be under full IAEA supervision.

The launch of Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, which has become a symbol not only of friendship and cooperation between our countries, but also of progress in the development of the Iranian peaceful atom, will contribute to further strengthening our strategic partnership in various fields, as well as increasing international confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program.

September 12, 2011