China, GCC hold first forum on peaceful nuclear cooperation

The first China-Gulf Cooperation Council Forum on the Peaceful Use of Nuclear Technology was held on Friday in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province, with a focus on enhancing nuclear collaboration and promoting clean energy development.

Hosted by the China Atomic Energy Authority, the forum brought together representatives from China and GCC member states. Director Shan Zhongde of the CAEA and GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi delivered opening remarks.

In his speech, Shan emphasized China's commitment to supporting the development needs of GCC countries through its comprehensive nuclear industry system, strong technological innovation, and skilled talent pool. He cited progress in platform development, application promotion, project implementation, and personnel training.

Shan also called for deeper collaboration under the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative. He urged all parties to work together in building "a shared nuclear community characterized by safety and beauty," strengthening nuclear security frameworks, and advancing innovation-driven cooperation.

"China is ready to work with GCC countries and like-minded partners to ensure nuclear technologies better benefit all nations," he said.

Albudaiwi thanked China for fostering dialogue on climate change mitigation, the clean energy transition, and peaceful nuclear technology applications. He praised China's achievements in nuclear safety and development, noting that the peaceful use of nuclear energy remains a top priority for Gulf states.

He said the forum would significantly boost the development of nuclear energy and technology for peaceful purposes, deepen China-GCC exchanges, and help nuclear innovations better serve regional livelihoods and prosperity.

During the event, the CAEA and the Saudi Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in nuclear safety, security, nonproliferation, and emergency response. The agreement outlines joint efforts in personnel exchanges, training programs, technical cooperation, and the creation of a bilateral working group.