LOC17:54
14:54 GMT
TOKYO, Dec 27 (KUNA) -- Japan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to launch talks
on a civil nuclear cooperation pact, the Foreign Ministry announced here
Friday, paving the way for Japanese firms to export nuclear materials,
technology and related equipment to the kingdom.
During the visit to Saudi Arabia by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in
April, the two governments agreed to launch working-level talks with an eye to
starting full-fledged negotiations for the bilateral agreement on the peaceful
uses of nuclear energy, the ministry said in a statement.
The export of nuclear plant technology and equipment is a central pillar of
Abe's economic growth strategy, and a nuclear agreement is needed with Saudi
Arabia to clear the way forward.
Japan has concluded such nuclear power pacts with 12 countries and
international organizations, including the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and
the US. (end)
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KUNA 271754 Dec 13NNNN