China at center of nuclear power growth in Asia

Has significant nuclear power expansion plans.

Yukiya Amano, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, described China at the center of the nuclear energy expansion in Asia.

He noted there are 434 nuclear power reactors in operation across the world and 69 under construction, and two-thirds of these new units are in Asia. He said China is an established user of nuclear power and has significant expansion plans.

"I'm committed to cooperation with China on nuclear safety and on good use of nuclear power," he said.

On nuclear safety concerns and the sector's contribution to sustainable growth, Amano said it is wrong to see only one side of the story.

Energy is needed to ensure sustainable development, and energy safety becomes much more important when the economy makes more progress, he added.