The Australian government confirmed in Canberra yesterday that
it would be starting negotiations with China on an agreement to
supply uranium for use in nuclear power stations, though no dates
for the talks were reported.
"I am pleased to announce Australia will formally commence
negotiations on a nuclear cooperation agreement with China,"
Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said in a statement.
"The agreement will establish safeguards arrangements to ensure
Australian uranium supplied to China is used exclusively for
peaceful purposes," he said.
Australian and Chinese officials have already held exploratory
talks on the proposed agreement, according to Downer.
Australia has an estimated 40 percent of the world's uranium
reserves and generates 21 percent of global production; China has
great energy needs to meet the demands of its rapid economic
development.
"Opening up this export opportunity with China is consistent
with the growing trade and economic relationship between our two
countries, and Australia's position as a secure supplier of energy
resources," he said.
Australia has 19 nuclear agreements involving 36 other
countries.
(Xinhua News Agency August 10, 2005)