China-France nuclear power cooperation has strategic significance

On December 28, in Paris, the French government emphasized the strategic importance of building a "balanced" and "sustainable" nuclear energy cooperation relationship with China. This statement came during a press conference where French Foreign Ministry spokesperson Fanchan Floriani highlighted that the French Nuclear Policy Committee views collaboration between EDF, Areva, and China Guangdong Nuclear Power Group as essential within a broader framework. The French government's stance is not without context. In November 2012, under President Hollande’s leadership, EDF, Areva, and China General Nuclear Power signed a three-party agreement to jointly design and construct a new medium-sized nuclear power plant with a capacity of 1,000 MW. However, this agreement was seen as a compromise, driven by internal competition among French energy companies. According to reports from Xinhua News, both EDF and Areva have faced criticism for their dealings with Chinese partners. The French weekly magazine *Le Nouvel Observateur* and satirical publication *Le Canard Enchaîné* accused EDF of bypassing the government and entering into an exclusive agreement with China Guangdong Nuclear Power, potentially involving the transfer of sensitive nuclear technology. A Reuters report cited by *Le Canard Enchaîné* revealed that a bilateral agreement between EDF and CGNPC was signed as early as November 2011, excluding Areva. This deal is currently under investigation by the French Ministry of Finance, which believes it may have undermined French interests. Both EDF and Areva are state-controlled, while China Guangdong Nuclear Power is a central state-owned enterprise. EDF’s executive vice president, Herve Machenaud, explained that the initial agreement with CGNPC was made due to close ties between EDF and Areva, but the latter was not involved. The agreement was later frozen by the French government. After relations improved, Areva joined the negotiations, leading to a revised tripartite agreement a year later. EDF stated that the new agreement had received government approval and included strict intellectual property protections, dismissing concerns about technology transfers as unfounded. Meanwhile, the French government continues its investigation into the EDF-CGNPC relationship. French Finance Minister Moscovici confirmed the ongoing probe but downplayed its significance, stating it was an analysis of procedures rather than an accusation. He emphasized the need to protect French interests and ensure transparency in international nuclear partnerships. This move reflects the French government’s active role in shaping the export of its nuclear industry. Earlier this year, the French Nuclear Policy Committee reiterated that foreign collaborations must align with national strategies, prompting a review of key players in the sector. EDF, one of Europe’s largest energy companies, operates over 120 GW of power stations, with 74.5% coming from nuclear sources. Areva, a global leader in nuclear design and construction, specializes in fuel production, reactor development, and waste management. Despite gaps in design capabilities compared to other Chinese nuclear institutes, China Guangdong Nuclear Power remains a key player. Analyst Cao Wei noted that the company seeks overseas partnerships to enhance its technological edge, especially as China’s nuclear project approvals increasingly favor firms with strong design expertise. EDF sees potential in collaborating with CGNPC to develop smaller, more cost-effective reactors, aiming to improve competitiveness in global markets. While the investigation by the French Ministry of Finance remains unresolved, experts suggest that such strategic battles are common in the highly secretive nuclear industry.

Undermount Sink

Undermount sink

The undermount sink is installed under the countertop, which has more space for use. The countertop is easy to clean and maintain. You can easily sweep the dirty water from the countertop into the sink with a rag, making it easier to clean the kitchen.

Undermount Kitchen Sink is the basin under the table refers to a basin whose edge is covered by the table and the whole basin body is installed under the table. 

Easy installation, hot sale modern design.

Customized double bowl and single bowl sinks, satisfy different sizes and colors demands.

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