Memorandums of understanding with five Saudi industrial partners were signed during French president François Hollande's visit to Riyadh. The agreements aim to develop the industrial and technical skills of local companies and were signed with Zamil Steel, Bahra Cables, Riyadh Cables, Saudi Pumps and Descon Olayan. They reflect Areva and EDF's desire to build an extended network of Saudi suppliers for future nuclear projects in the country.
The second set of agreements was signed with four Saudi universities and is intended to contribute to the development of nuclear expertise in the Kingdom.
Signing of the agreements follows on from the previous activities organized by EDF and Areva through their joint office in Riyadh. These included suppliers’ days in March and October 2013, a visit to France by Saudi industrial companies, an agreement with a local professional training institute, visits to French nuclear facilities by Saudi university faculty members and internship offers made to Saudi students.
EDF CEO Henri Proglio said: "These new agreements underline EDF and Areva's commitment alongside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to enable it to successfully implement its national energy strategy and in particular to develop its future nuclear programme by contributing to the development of a local network of manufacturers and by training qualified engineers.”
Luc Oursel, president and CEO of Areva, added: "These agreements demonstrate the common will of EDF and Areva to establish a true long-term partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They will enable the country to build a strong industrial base and a robust skills management programme.”
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