On the 28th, a French Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Fanchan Floriani, announced that the French government is working to clarify its role in the nuclear power industry's international exports, emphasizing a clear distinction between government policy and private enterprise involvement. Despite this, the government still views its partnership with China as "balanced" and "sustainable," highlighting the strategic importance of the collaboration.
In September, the French Nuclear Policy Committee emphasized that the government plays a central role in managing nuclear exports, ensuring that all external dealings by companies fall under national oversight. As part of this strategy, the committee has been reviewing key players in the French nuclear sector and their international partners.
Floriani noted during a press briefing that the cooperation with China is not only significant but also essential for long-term energy planning. He stated that EDF and Areva should work closely with China Guangdong Nuclear Power Group to build an industrial partnership aligned with the government's guidelines.
However, the relationship has not been without controversy. Earlier this year, French media outlets, including the "New Observer" and "Road of Ducks," criticized Areva for allegedly acting independently from the government, signing a deal with China General Nuclear Power to develop a new reactor design and potentially transferring sensitive technology.
In response to these claims, Erve Machono, executive vice president of EDF, clarified that while a deal was signed with China General Nuclear Power last year, Areva was not involved due to internal tensions. The agreement was temporarily put on hold by the government. Once relations improved, Areva joined the negotiations, and a revised tripartite agreement was signed a year later.
EDF confirmed that the new agreement received full government approval and included strict measures to protect intellectual property. The company dismissed concerns about technology transfer as unfounded, emphasizing that all terms were transparent and carefully regulated. This development marks a renewed commitment to a sustainable and cooperative approach in the nuclear energy sector between France and China.Taizhou TS HARDWARE Co., Ltd , https://www.shuwengroup.com