Vietnam, UK to promote nuclear energy cooperation

Vietnam's Ministry of Science and Technology and the United Kingdom's Foreign and Commonwealth Office inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in using nuclear energy for peaceful purposes in Vietnam's capital Hanoi on Thursday. Under the MoU, the two sides will work together in education and training, human resources development, research of civil nuclear power plants, and the application of radiation and radioactive isotopes, reported Vietnam's state-run news agency on Thursday. The two sides will also strengthen the management of radioactive waste and used materials while cooperating in infrastructure, financial consultation, information and communications, and response to nuclear problems. Vietnam is starting its nuclear energy program, therefore learning experiences from countries with advanced technology, including the UK, is of great significance in helping the country ensuring nuclear security and safety for peaceful purposes, said Le Dinh Tien, Vietnamese deputy minister of science and technology at the signing ceremony. British Ambassador to Vietnam Antony Stokes said both sides have given importance to energy sources that ensure environmental sustainability, security, safety and cost savings, including nuclear power. The MoU proves the UK's willingness to share experience with Vietnam in the field. Earlier in 2010, the two governments signed a joint statement on strategic partnership with science and technology one of prioritized cooperative areas.