Australia and China sign nuclear agreements

[Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, 4 January] Australia and China ratified the Australia-China Nuclear Transfer Agreement, and the Nuclear Cooperation Agreement through an exchange of Diplomatic Notes in Beijing on 4 January, announced Alexander Downer, Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs. The agreements will enter into force 30 days after ratification. Accordingly, the legal framework for Australian uranium producers to commence exports to China is expected to be in place early in 2007. The timing and quantities of exports will be a matter for commercial negotiation, Downer said.