Kuwait has reiterated its steadfast commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy during the opening session of the First China-Gulf Forum on the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Technologies, held in Chengdu, China. The remarks were delivered by Abdulaziz Al-Dakhil, Counselor at the Kuwaiti Embassy in China, who represented the country at the high-level event.
Speaking on behalf of Kuwait, Al-Dakhil emphasized the nation’s support for the right of all countries to develop and utilize nuclear energy for peaceful purposes under the framework of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). He reaffirmed Kuwait’s advocacy for a nuclear-weapon-free zone and its active cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Al-Dakhil highlighted Kuwait’s expanding collaboration with the IAEA, noting that the country had submitted four national projects focused on genetically modified crop production, groundwater management, radiation-based cancer treatment, and mitigation of environmental and radioactive pollution. He also revealed ongoing assessments led by the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) in partnership with the IAEA to explore the integration of small modular reactors (SMRs) into Kuwait’s energy strategy.
Though Kuwait has yet to establish a national nuclear energy program for power generation, Al-Dakhil affirmed that current studies align with the country’s long-term energy goals and global advancements in nuclear technology. He expressed confidence that the forum would generate actionable recommendations to strengthen Sino-Gulf cooperation in peaceful nuclear applications.
The forum brought together key stakeholders from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including GCC Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi, and China’s Director-General of the National Atomic Energy Authority, Shan Zhongde. Experts from the IAEA, global research institutions, and nuclear specialists also participated in discussions on energy transition, technological innovation, and regional energy challenges.
In comments to China Central Television, Al-Budaiwi lauded China’s leadership in nuclear safety and clean energy, calling the forum a vital platform for deepening strategic partnerships between China and GCC states. Shan Zhongde reaffirmed China’s readiness to expand international cooperation and promote shared benefits in the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
On the sidelines of the forum, Saudi Arabia’s Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China’s National Atomic Energy Authority to enhance cooperation in nuclear safety, non-proliferation, emergency preparedness, and technical training.
The forum marks a significant milestone in growing China-GCC cooperation, as both sides aim to harness peaceful nuclear technologies to support sustainable development and regional energy security.
