The concept of using nuclear energy for the peaceful development of developing countries has been included in a key resolution of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
"Atoms for Global South" was submitted by China and the Group of 77 on Thursday at the 68th IAEA General Conference. Its inclusion in the UN atomic agency's technical cooperation resolution highlights the urgent needs of developing countries to harness nuclear energy and technologies in a peaceful way.
Li Song, China's permanent representative to the IAEA, noted that development is the key to addressing various challenges the world is facing today. Promoting the development of the Global South through international cooperation is crucial. During the resolution negotiations, China proposed the concept of "Atoms for Global South," which has been widely welcomed by developing countries, Li said.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of China's accession to the IAEA. The successful cooperation between China and the IAEA over the past 40 years has witnessed the development and growth of China's nuclear industry, as well as its opening and sharing with the international community, Li said.
Li also announced the opening of 12 nuclear research facilities and testing platforms to the Global South to enhance cooperation and promote technological innovation.
China-advocated concept "Atoms for Global South" included in IAEA resolution
President of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Lee Jae Myung has expressed his hope that his upcoming visit to China will help eliminate past misunderstandings and issues, underscoring the importance of ties between the two countries.
At the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Lee will pay a state visit to China from Jan 4 to 7. It will be Lee's first visit to China since he took office.
In an interview with China Media Group (CMG) in Seoul on Wednesday, Lee acknowledged the existing misunderstandings and issues between the two countries, noting that addressing these issues is a key goal of his visit.
"The current international landscape is turbulent, with escalating issues among various countries. In this context, the relationship between the Republic of Korea and China holds significant importance for us. the ROK and China are deeply interconnected in many areas, including history, economy, geopolitics, politics and security. Northeast Asia's peace, stability, mutual respect, and common prosperity are crucial for both countries," said Lee.
"Admittedly, there have been some misunderstandings and issues between the ROK and China, which have hindered the development of bilateral relations to some extent. Therefore, the purpose of my upcoming visit to China is to minimize or eliminate these past issues, foster a leap in our bilateral relations to a new level, and solidify the ROK and China as partners that mutually support each other's development," he said.
ROK President hopes to reduce misunderstandings with China during upcoming visit