Energy Minister Vladimir Malinov and Bucharest-based Canadian Ambassador Gavin Buchan agreed that the two countries will exchange expertise in nuclear energy, reports the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA).

"The construction of the 7th and 8th units of the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant in Bulgaria is irreversible, politically-backed and crucial for energy security and affordable clean electricity,” Malinov said.

The meeting also included representatives from the Canadian Commercial Corporation, Ontario Power Generation, a leading Canadian energy producer, and its subsidiary engineering company, Laurentis. Malinov presented the project timeline for the new nuclear capacities, noting that the final investment decision is expected in the last quarter of next year.

Buchan showed interest in strengthening Bulgarian-Canadian cooperation in the energy sector, especially nuclear energy. Over 200 companies in Canada work in this field and are active in Europe. Malinov expressed confidence that sharing expertise between experts would be beneficial for both sides.

The future role of small modular reactors as supplementary energy capacities was also discussed. "Bulgaria shows significant interest in Canada's experience in building small modular reactors. The application of this technology here would contribute to achieving the decarbonisation goals," Malinov said.