China and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have agreed to deepen cooperation on the peaceful use of nuclear technology, with a focus on supporting sustainable development across the Global South.
The commitment was made during a high-level meeting in Beijing, where officials discussed how nuclear science can play a greater role in addressing global challenges such as energy shortages, food security and climate change.
The talks brought together senior representatives from Chinese government agencies and the IAEA, highlighting a shared goal of making advanced nuclear technology more accessible to developing countries. The cooperation is not focused on weapons, but on the safe and practical use of nuclear technology in areas such as clean electricity generation, agriculture and medical treatment.
In recent years, China has expanded its role in global nuclear development, particularly in the construction and export of nuclear power technology. Through partnerships and training programmes, it has worked with several developing nations to help build the skills and infrastructure needed to use nuclear energy safely. By strengthening ties with the IAEA, China aims to align these efforts with international standards and broaden their reach.
A key area of focus is clean energy. Many countries in the Global South face rising energy demand but lack reliable, low-carbon power sources. Nuclear energy, which produces very low greenhouse gas emissions, is increasingly seen as a stable alternative to fossil fuels. Officials at the meeting stressed that expanding access to nuclear power could help these countries meet development goals while addressing climate concerns.
Beyond energy, nuclear technology also has important applications in agriculture and healthcare. It can be used to improve crop yields, control pests and enhance food safety. In medicine, nuclear techniques are widely used in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Expanding access to these tools could significantly improve living standards in developing regions.
The cooperation will also include training and knowledge-sharing initiatives. China has offered to expand educational programmes, technical workshops and expert exchanges to help partner countries build local expertise. This is considered essential to ensuring nuclear technology is used safely and effectively over the long term.
The meeting comes as the IAEA places increasing emphasis on supporting developing nations. Director General Rafael Grossi has repeatedly highlighted the need to ensure that the benefits of nuclear science are shared more widely, particularly in regions with historically limited access.
Analysts say the strengthened partnership reflects a broader trend of increased cooperation between China and international organisations on development issues. It also highlights the growing importance of South-South cooperation, in which developing countries work together to address shared challenges.
While nuclear technology offers many benefits, both sides stressed the importance of safety, regulation and non-proliferation. The IAEA plays a central role in setting global standards and ensuring nuclear materials are used responsibly. China reaffirmed its commitment to these principles during the meeting.
As global demand for clean energy and sustainable solutions continues to grow, the deepened cooperation between China and the IAEA is expected to create new opportunities for countries in the Global South. For many of these nations, access to nuclear technology could become a key tool in achieving long-term economic growth and improving quality of life.
U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington has agreed to resume talks with Iran after Tehran requested further negotiations, but declared that last m...
What began as a fan-created chant just months ago has become one of the defining images of this year's FIFA World Cup, with Norway's "Viking Row" swee...
Russia’s fuel shortages are spreading into Central Asia, exposing the region’s heavy reliance on Russian petrol and diesel as governments race to ...
Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged China and North Korea to strengthen cooperation and maintain "strategic resolve" amid what he described as growing global instability. He made the remarks during talks with North Korean Premier Pak Thae-song in Beijing on Friday.
China has approved fast-fashion retailer Shein's long-awaited initial public offering (IPO) in Hong Kong, clearing the way for the company to pursue a stock market listing after previous attempts in the U.S. and London failed.
China has successfully tested an experimental rocket recovery system using a net attached to an offshore platform, marking a major step in its efforts to develop reusable rockets and compete with U.S. space technology.
Dozens of flights have been cancelled across East Asia as Super Typhoon Bavi approaches China. The typhoon, which has maximum sustained winds of 162 kph (100mph), is nearing a remote chain of Japanese islands, east of Taiwan on Friday.
It has been a punishing week for large parts of China, and forecasters warn the worst may not be over. After Typhoon Maysak left a trail of destruction and at least 23 people dead, Super Typhoon Bavi is now threatening the country's eastern coast.
At least 12 people have been killed in forest fires in Almeria in southern Spain, Andalucía’s emergency agency has said, as firefighters continue efforts to put out the blaze.
The death toll from Venezuela's twin earthquakes has risen to 3,811, according to figures released by National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez on Wednesday.
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the memorandum of understanding signed with Iran to end the conflict was "over", adding he did not want to engage with Tehran, calling the Iranian leadership "sick people".
The U.S. military said on Wednesday it launched fresh strikes on Iran to keep the Strait of Hormuz open to shipping, triggering Iranian attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain in the latest escalation to derail efforts to end the war.
China's technology sector is producing billion-dollar startups at its fastest pace in nearly five years, with artificial intelligence and robotics driving a new wave of investment that is reshaping the country's innovation economy.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged China and North Korea to strengthen cooperation and maintain "strategic resolve" amid what he described as growing global instability. He made the remarks during talks with North Korean Premier Pak Thae-song in Beijing on Friday.
British police have arrested a 26-year-old man on suspicion of the murder of Ann Widdecombe, a former government minister whose death was announced on Friday.
Andy Burnham is on the brink of becoming Labour leader and prime minister after securing the overwhelming backing of Labour MPs in the first round of leadership nominations.
The 4th Shusha Global Media Forum will bring together nearly 160 media leaders, experts and officials from 54 countries in Azerbaijan's historic city of Shusha on 13-14 July, to discuss journalism’s role in peacebuilding, restoring public trust and tackling challenges.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment