Putin reaffirms willingness to help South Africa with nuclear power

SOCHI, Russia, May 17 (UPI) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed his country's willingness to aid South Africa in developing its nuclear power industry, officials said.

"Russia stands ready to help create a comprehensive nuclear power industry in South Africa," Putin said Thursday during a meeting with South African President Jacob Zuma in Sochi, Russia, RIA Novosti reported.

Putin said the countries will also work together on other energy projects.

Putin first suggested Russia would be willing to assist South Africa in bettering its nuclear power industry at a conference in Durban, South Africa, in March.

South Africa now has two nuclear reactors that supply 5 percent of the country's electricity.