France and China are strengthening their decades-long partnership in nuclear energy, a move reflecting the growing global emphasis on low-carbon energy sources.
This renewed commitment, formalized in recent agreements, aims to bolster both nations’ capabilities in the construction, operation, and safety of nuclear facilities amid increasing demand and geopolitical considerations.
the collaboration extends beyond power generation to include advancements in reactor technology, waste management, and international safeguards, highlighting the strategic importance of nuclear energy in addressing climate goals and energy security.
France and China have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in the nuclear energy sector, recognizing its crucial role in addressing climate change and bolstering global energy security. The agreement, building on decades of collaboration, signals a continued strategic partnership between the two nations in a field increasingly vital to decarbonization efforts worldwide.
Both countries highlighted the importance of nuclear energy as a clean, low-carbon, stable, and reliable power source. They also acknowledged the existing industrial and technological cooperation established under the 1997 intergovernmental agreement for the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and a 1982 protocol on civil nuclear applications.
The renewed commitment emphasizes a shared vision for the future of nuclear power, with both France and China agreeing to continue their collaboration based on principles of transparency, mutual respect, and trust.
- The two parties agreed that nuclear energy cooperation is a key component of the overall Franco-Chinese strategic partnership. They will continue to share expertise and technical knowledge regarding the construction and operation of third-generation pressurized water nuclear reactors, extending the lifespan of existing plants, decommissioning retired facilities, and managing radioactive waste.
- Innovation is seen as critical to enhancing the safety and economic viability of nuclear energy. France and China will leverage existing collaborative projects to further their joint research and development efforts, and are exploring new initiatives focused on small modular reactors, the application of artificial intelligence – including digitalization and automation in manufacturing processes – and non-electric applications like heat production and medical radioisotopes.
- Ensuring a stable nuclear supply chain is also a priority. The countries committed to joint efforts in securing fuel supplies, manufacturing nuclear equipment, and safeguarding uranium resources. They also pledged to ensure the safe, reliable, and sustainable management, processing, and storage of spent fuel and radioactive waste, reinforcing their dedication to the safe development of nuclear energy and the resilience of the nuclear industry.
- Both nations recognize the potential of nuclear fusion as a significant long-term energy source. They will continue to actively participate in the international ITER fusion reactor project, aiming to contribute to its successful completion on schedule.
- Maintaining and strengthening nuclear safety and security remains paramount. France and China expressed their intention to enhance the exchange of experience and technical cooperation in these areas between relevant government departments, regulatory bodies, and technical support organizations, working together to address challenges in nuclear safety and security.
- Recognizing the need for a skilled workforce, the two countries will continue to collaborate on education and training programs in nuclear science and engineering, covering the construction, operation, and maintenance of nuclear reactors. This commitment aims to build a sustainable talent pool for the long-term development of nuclear energy.
- France and China reaffirmed their commitment to the international nuclear non-proliferation framework, including the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and underscored the central role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in promoting nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation. They pledged to support the IAEA with necessary resources, subject to funding availability and compliance with national laws.
- The two parties are committed to supporting the international development of nuclear energy to decarbonize energy mixes, in accordance with international obligations regarding nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation.
- China has endorsed France’s initiative to triple global nuclear energy production between 2020 and 2050, reflecting a shared ambition to expand nuclear capabilities worldwide and accelerate efforts towards carbon neutrality.
