China and PGCC Nations Forge Stronger Ties in Peaceful Nuclear Technology Cooperation
In a significant development for international nuclear collaboration, China and the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council (PGCC) countries have committed to enhancing their partnership in the peaceful use of nuclear technology. This pledge was made during the First China-GCC Forum on Peaceful Use of Nuclear Technology, held on Monday in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, China. The forum, organized by the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), gathered officials and nuclear experts from various PGCC nations including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The forum served as a platform for participants to explore various aspects of nuclear energy and technology, addressing both challenges and opportunities within this vital sector. Key discussions included:
- Collaborative solutions for nuclear energy development
- Insights on current needs in nuclear technology
- Future prospects for nuclear cooperation
According to the CAEA, the partnership between China and PGCC nations in the realm of nuclear energy has seen considerable growth in recent years. A notable example is the intergovernmental agreement signed between China and the UAE, which focuses on:
- Cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy
- Advancements in reactor operation
- Fuel supply management
- Personnel training programs
Additionally, China is collaborating with Saudi Arabia on various initiatives, including:
- Uranium-thorium exploration
- Nuclear safety measures
- Public security protocols
On the technology front, Chinese radiation detection equipment has been extensively exported to PGCC countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. These technologies played a crucial role in significant events such as the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and the Dubai Expo. Furthermore, partnerships have been established between Chinese firms and universities with countries like Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain, focusing on:
- Nuclear medicine
- Basic nuclear research
During the Chengdu forum, the CAEA and the Saudi Arabian nuclear regulator formalized their collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU). This agreement aims to enhance cooperation in nuclear safety and security through:
- Joint training programs
- Working groups focused on nuclear safety
Shan Zhongde, the director of the CAEA, emphasized China’s commitment to promoting international cooperation in the nuclear sector. He stated that China would share its technological expertise and contribute essential resources and platforms to build a community with a shared future for humanity. Shan expressed optimism that the forum would evolve into a long-term mechanism for:
- Sharing opportunities
- Addressing common challenges
- Advancing cooperation in nuclear energy and technology
Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, the secretary general of the PGCC, echoed these sentiments, expressing hope that the collaboration between PGCC countries and China would deepen. Through this forum, he aims to enhance knowledge exchange and build a brighter future that delivers greater benefits to the people.
In conclusion, the strengthening of ties between China and the PGCC countries in the peaceful use of nuclear technology represents a pivotal step toward a more collaborative and innovative future in nuclear energy. This partnership not only aims to address current challenges but also seeks to leverage shared knowledge for the betterment of both regions.
