Turkey, Jordan strengthen ties, sign nuclear agreement

Jordan says its peaceful nuclear program, supported by US, is imperative for electricity generation, exploring other alternative sources.

By ASSOCIATED PRESS
311_Obama and Jordanian king (photo credit: Associated Press)
311_Obama and Jordanian king
(photo credit: Associated Press)
AMMAN, Jordan — Jordan and Turkey on Thursday signed a nuclear cooperation agreement paving the way for closer ties between the two countries.
Jordan said its peaceful nuclear program, supported by the United States, is imperative for electricity generation and exploring other cost-effective alternative sources.
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The state Petra news agency said the accord covers nuclear reactor operation and servicing, provision of nuclear fuel cycle services, uranium exploration and radiation protection.
Jordan wants to build a nuclear plant by 2019 to meet its growing energy needs and reduce its energy bill, which consumes about 20 percent of its annual budget.
It has signed similar accords with 11 other nations, including Italy, Japan and the United States.