China Seeks to Expand Peaceful Nuclear Energy Cooperation With GCC and UAE

China is prepared to expand cooperation with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in the peaceful use of nuclear technology, according to Shan Zhongde, head of the China Atomic Energy Authority. Shan made the remarks at the fourth China-ASEAN Forum on Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Technology held in Kuala Lumpur, where GCC member state representatives participated for the first time.

Shan stated that China aims to deepen partnerships to build a closer China-ASEAN community and a China-Arab community with a shared future. He affirmed that China will safeguard the legitimate rights of developing nations to use nuclear technology peacefully, while working with partner states to manage industrial and nuclear-related risks.

Proposed areas of bilateral research and development include small modular reactors (SMRs) and controlled nuclear fusion to address climate change, alongside expanded technical talent exchanges. Representatives from several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, delivered national reports detailing their nuclear energy status and development plans.

The forum included four roundtable sessions covering topics such as small reactor innovation, irradiation applications, medical isotope utilization, and workforce development. An accompanying exhibition showcased China's recent technical advancements and industrial applications in nuclear energy.