Russia's AtomEnergoMash will supply the reactor pressure vessels, reactor internals, and core catchers for two VVER-1200 units that are to be built as part of Belarus's first nuclear power plant at Ostrovets.

The president of Belarus has helped bury a capsule at the site of the country's planned new nuclear power plant at Ostrovets, marking a significant occasion in that country's journey towards energy independence.

The Belarusian government has approved a draft contract for the country's first nuclear power plant. Soon to be signed with Russia's AtomStroyExport, it calls for construction of the two-unit plant to begin by the end of next year.

Belarus has signed a range of energy agreements with Russia, handing over its gas supply network while cementing progress toward a nuclear power plant to offset the fuel.