World Tribune.com

Iran's nuclear program triggers neighbors' interest

SPECIAL TO WORLD TRIBUNE.COM
Friday, July 7, 2006

CAIRO — Iran's nuclear program has sparked interest in research and development by several regional states. So far, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, two of the largest producers of oil and natural gas, have been examining the prospect of a nuclear research program.

Iran's northern neighbor, Turkey, plans to build at least three nuclear reactors by 2011, Middle East Newsline reported.

Yemen also plans to launch a nuclear energy program.

Officials said Yemen would establish a nuclear reactor facility and train operators. They said Sanaa would receive assistance from regional allies.

"My future tasks include the huge development file and that of the energy production required to meet growing needs, including producing electricity through nuclear energy," Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh said.

In a statement on July 4, Saleh, 64, said nuclear energy development would be a major focus of his next term as president. Yemen produces around 380,000 barrels per day, one of the smallest outputs in the Gulf region.

Officials said Iran has already offered to help Yemen develop nuclear energy. Saleh has frequently defended Iran's nuclear program, which the United States regards as a military project.


Copyright © 2006 East West Services, Inc.

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