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.