The agreement, which leverages on existing bilateral cooperation between the two countries, including in the field of nuclear energy, will commence the preparatory phase for a possible utilization of Chinese nuclear technology in South Africa.
South Africa Energy Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson said: "We have stated that the nuclear new build programme offers important opportunities for South Africa as it will enhance job creation, skills development and the revitalisation of our nuclear industry.
"We will be looking for significant localisation that can contribute to broad industrialisation and the development of a thriving knowledge economy in South Africa."
South Africa aims to expand nuclear power generation by an additional 9.6GW, as part of its Integrated Resource Plan 2010 – 2030 in order to ensure energy security and contribute to economic growth.
The preparatory phase of the nuclear new build program of South African government involves the signing of inter-governmental framework agreements with various nuclear vendor countries.
