•Publication Date：01/09/2014
•Source： Taiwan Today
Taiwan and the U.S. recently concluded an agreement on nuclear energy, paving the way for enhanced cooperation spanning a wide range of related activities, according to the ROC Atomic Energy Council Jan. 8.
Signed by ROC Representative to the U.S. King Pu-tsung and American Institute in Taiwan Managing Director Barbara J. Schrage Dec. 20, 2013, in Washington, the pact reaffirms the two countries’ commitment to cooperating in the control, development and peaceful use of nuclear energy. It also underscores the support of both sides for the safeguards system of the International Atomic Energy Agency, including the Additional Protocol.
According to the AEC, the pact replaces a 42-year agreement set to expire June 22. The deal was referred to the ROC Cabinet earlier this week and is being fast-tracked for a legislative hearing .
“The agreement is the basis for the U.S. and other countries to provide nuclear resources to Taiwan,” an AEC official said. “It will enable Taiwan to take part in activities arranged by the IAEA concerning nuclear-related disaster prevention.”
Activities covered under the pact include exchanges and training of personnel; organization of symposiums and seminars; provision of relevant technical assistance and services; as well as transfer of information, material, equipment and components.
In particular, both sides agree to develop for Taiwan requirements governing grid-appropriate reactors and fuel service arrangements, as well as promoting the establishment of reliable fuel sources.
Other areas of collaboration include application of radioisotopes and radiation in agriculture, manufacturing, medicine and the environment; civil nuclear energy training, human resources and infrastructure development; and radiation protection and management of radioactive waste and spent fuel.
In a Jan. 7 letter to the Congress, U.S. President Obama approved the agreement and authorized its execution, urging favorable consideration by the lawmaking body.
“Over the last two decades, the authorities on Taiwan have established a reliable record on nonproliferation and on commitments to nonproliferation,” Obama said.
While Taiwan is prevented from formally acceding to multilateral nonproliferation treaties or agreements, the country has voluntarily assumed commitments to adhere to the provisions of multilateral treaties and initiatives, he added.
These include ratification of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons in 1970 and Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on Their Destruction two years later.
Obama said Taiwan adheres to IAEA standards and directives in its nuclear program, works closely with U.S. civilian nuclear authorities, and has established relationships with mainland China with respect to nuclear safety.
The U.S. president believes the agreement will promote common defense and security.
