China says suspends approval of nuclear power projects
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Beijing, March 17, IRNA -- China said on Thursday it has suspended approval for nuclear power projects in the wake of the crisis in Japan as the world nations are reviewing use of nuclear energy.
The country, which has by far the largest nuclear energy expansion plans, took the step to allow a re-examination of safety measures.
Japan is battling to contain the disaster at the Fukushima plant, where military helicopters are now using seawater to cool damaged reactors.
China currently has 13 reactors on its coastline and is building around 28 more, roughly 40% of the world's total under construction, to help meet soaring demand.
Approvals have been fast tracked in the past two years but they have now been halted 'until the nuclear safety plan is approved'.
The country's state council said: 'We must fully understand the urgency and importance of nuclear safety.'
The statement added: 'Any hazards must be thoroughly dealt with, and those that do not conform to safety standards must immediately cease construction.'
Meanwhile, India, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom have also announced reviews and the EU has pledged to look into the full range of consequences from the catastrophe.
|
NEWSLETTER
|
| Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list |
|
|
|
