French review of China nuclear cooperation "normal"

The decision by France’s new government to review nuclear cooperation with China was a “normal” process, Trade Minister Nicole Bricq said on Monday, Reuters reported. An investigation into the nuclear partnership deal between EDF and nuclear utility China Guangdong Nuclear Power was announced in late December by Finance Minister Pierre Moscovici. The investigation is looking into why French nuclear reactor maker Areva was initially excluded from the deal and to what extent the country’s strategic interest could be at risk. On a second visit to China by a French minister this month, Bricq said it was to be expected, after 10 years of conservative rule, to undergo a “regular process to set strategy.” She is due to visit two next-generation EPR reactors being built by French utility EDF and by CGNPC in Taishan, Guangdong on Tuesday.