Brussels, 22/12/2009 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 22 December, the Council of the EU adopted a mandate authorising the European Commission to negotiate a cooperation agreement between the EU and Russia on the peaceful use of nuclear energy. This agreement aims to create a stable and predictable legal framework for the public authorities and operators, to guarantee safety and security standards and to facilitate legitimate commercial trade between the parties in nuclear matters, explained European Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs. There are currently 146 nuclear power stations operating within the EU; 40 nuclear power stations are in operation or being built in Russia, where 44 new installations are planned by the end of 2030. (E.H./transl.fl)