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China-Australia close to signing uranium deal
Australia, which has consistently refused to sell uranium to India citing New Delhi's refusal to sign the NPT, is close to inking a major deal with China for the export of nuclear fuel. "China and Australia are willing to have mutually beneficial cooperation on the basis of equality and mutual benefit in terms of nuclear energy cooperation. We take a positive attitude in this regard," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang told mediapersons on Tuesday. Mr Qin said that Sino-Australian cooperation would serve the interests of both the countries and will lead to the deepening of the bilateral friendship and relations. "The two sides, during negotiations, pointed out that we are willing to support the non-proliferation regime and efforts of the international community. We will honour our responsibility and commitments of non-proliferation," he said. However, Mr Qin said he did not have the details of the agreement. He also said that he was not aware of the reports that the uranium deal would be signed during the possible visit to Australia by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in April. "I don't have any information to offer at this stage. If we sign this agreement, we will keep you updated," the spokesman added. Posted by: john 2006-03-14 |
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