International forum shines spotlight on export controls

In a statement in Chinese, shared on social media, CGN said it had noted reports of the US action, which was announced on 11 October. The USA's new policy framework on civil nuclear cooperation with China followed a government policy review led by the US National Security Council and covers exports of technology, equipment and components. It mandates a presumption of denial for the exports of technology, equipment and components to CGN and its subsidiaries and related entities.

CGN said the US government's inference was "inappropriate". The company reserved the right to protect its "legitimate rights and interest by legal means", it said.

CGN noted that its projects in the UK do not use US nuclear technology, and said the nuclear technology export process is strictly controlled by Chinese regulatory authorities. CGN is to take a 35.5% stake in EDF Energy's project to construct the Hinkley Point C EPR plant, as well as partnership agreements for the development of an EPR at Sizewell and two Hualong One units at Bradwell.

"We will continue to work with our partners to promote new nuclear power projects in the UK," the company said.

UAE hosts forum

The 2018 Forum on Nuclear Export Control Practices, hosted by the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), brings together national and international experts to share knowledge and expertise on nuclear export controls. During the forum, experts will present their countries' experiences and methodologies for evaluating their relevant nuclear export control systems, highlight good practices and discuss cooperation and opportunities to strengthen the system and counter illicit trade, the regulator said yesterday.

In opening comments to the workshop, FANR Deputy Director-General for Operations Raoul Awad said participants would exchange experiences and discuss recent developments in the field of nuclear export control, both at the international and the national level.

"This will enable us to further enhance export control practices and strengthen regulatory frameworks in order to be better prepared to address the challenges in this area," he said. "A transparent nuclear export control system and a comprehensive and transparent safeguards system are essential parts of the nuclear non-proliferation regime and any peaceful nuclear programme."