Singapore and China agree on peaceful nuclear cooperation

Work covers reactor safety training and nuclear safeguards ahead of a 2027 review.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry Singapore (MTI) and the China Atomic Energy Authority agreed to cooperate on the peaceful uses of nuclear technology on 17 August.

MTI said in a statement that the memorandum of understanding (MOU) will facilitate capability building partnerships between Singapore and China.

The MOU covers safety and technical assessments of nuclear reactor technologies; manpower training and scientific visits; public education, communications, and engagement; nuclear safety, safeguards, and security; and nuclear technology applications.

The agreement forms part of Singapore’s recent engagements with international partners, including the US, France, and South Korea.

MTI said the engagements will support Singapore’s efforts to develop independent capabilities to make an objective and technical assessment of the potential deployment of nuclear energy.

“These engagements will also contribute to Singapore’s preparations for the International Atomic Energy Authority’s Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review Phase 1 Mission in 2027,” the ministry said.

The memorandum was signed by MTI Permanent Secretary (Energy & Trade) Augustin Lee and CAEA Vice-Chairman Liu Jing, with Singapore Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) Tan See Leng and CAEA Chairman Shan Zhongde witnessing the signing.