Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Ali Akbar Salehi who arrived in Beijing this morning to hold talks with Chinese officials on redesigning Arak heavy water reactor as well as the construction of several new power plants in Iran, met with China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) Chairman Xu Dazhe as the first segment of his trip.
During the meeting, the two officials highlighted the development of cooperation between Iran and China in the field of peaceful nuclear energy.
They also called for expansion of Tehran-Beijing relations in all areas, particularly in the construction of small power plants.
It was announced during the meeting that small multifaceted 100-MW power stations with more economical costs have outstanding features such as electricity generation, the production of industrial steam, and desalination.
The two sides maintained that the construction of these small power plants in addition to 1000-MW power stations will completely meet the country’s needs for atomic electricity.
Xu Dazhe underscored the importance of the ratification of the JCPOA by Iran and the 5+1 group of countries, saying this would set the stage for further cooperation.
Salehi told reporters upon arrival in Beijing that since the JCPOA has raised the issue of redesigning Arak reactor, it was necessary to hold serious talks with the Chinese side on this issue.
He also added that a working group is to be set up to redesign the Arak heavy water reactor, noting that in addition to China, the US will also be part of the task force on the Arak reactor.
He further maintained that other members of the 5+1 or countries outside the group like South Korea could also participate in the project if approved by the Islamic Republic and the other six countries.
Salehi, who is on a three-day visit to China, is scheduled to hold meetings with a number of high-ranking Chinese officials, including Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday evening.