Asian Nuclear Energy

Malaysia aims to use nuclear power as an alternative energy source by 2025, a government official said. Nuclear policy has got the go-ahead to be implemented and the government will link up with international organizations such as the United Nations and the International Atomic Energy Agency, said Malaysia's Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Fadillah Yusof.

Italy's Minister of Economic Development Claudio Scajola has said the country will have locations for its new nuclear plants within six months with a consortium approach for financing and a cooperation deal with the United States.

Kazakhstan has seen a significant increase in uranium production during the first half of 2009. Besides being the world's leading uranium supplier, the country aims to become an exporter of fabricated fuel and reactor technology.

Canada's national nuclear company will be given a new mandate and structure, the country's government said. Private companies are likely to take major involvement in AECL's research and laboratories.