China, France deepen energy cooperation

Over the years China has signed nuclear cooperation agreements with about 20 countries. France is one of China's most important partners in the nuclear energy field.

In April 2009, China and France renewed their agreement on cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The document stated that since the first protocol was signed in 1982, both sides have carried out proactive and efficient coordination. The three year protocol, the tenth of its kind, includes efforts in radioactive waste treatment, controllable nuclear fusion and personnel training.

In November, China Guangdong Nuclear Power Group and Areva of France signed an eight-billion-euro nuclear energy deal, the biggest commercial contract ever signed by France's nuclear energy industry. The two sides will work together to establish two European pressurized water reactors at Taishan in Guangdong.

The AFP news service says during French Prime Minister Francois Fillon's visit, China and France may sign nuclear cooperation contracts worth 1.5 billion euros.

It is reported that Electric de France and Areva Group are pushing for a new deal to build more nuclear power plants in Guangdong. France also intends to promote another two projects, which include the construction of an Institute of Nuclear Research in China.