President Xi to attend nuclear security summit

BEIJING - President Xi Jinping will explain China's opinions on nuclear security and ideas about international cooperation in this field at the upcoming Nuclear Security Summit (NSS), Vice Foreign Minister Li Baodong said on Monday.

According to Li, leaders from more than 50 countries and international organizations will attend the summit in The Hague from March 24 to 25, with the focus on nuclear security and the prevention of nuclear terrorism.

Noting that the NSS has become an important platform to address these issues since its first meeting in Washington in 2010, Li said developing nuclear energy under the condition of safety to support social and economic development was an important topic for the international community.

It will be Xi's first presence at the NSS, demonstrating China's diplomatic efforts in the nuclear security arena, Li said, adding that the president will introduce China's measures to strengthen nuclear security and progress, and will discuss cooperation with leaders from other countries.

He said China hopes participants will reach new consensus and promote international cooperation on nuclear security, improve the security level of nuclear materials and facilities, and advance rational development of nuclear energy.

China expects the efforts to help advance the economy and society, and contribute to world peace and security, Li added.

Besides his attendance at the NSS, President Xi will also pay state visits to the Netherlands, France, Germany and Belgium, and will visit the headquarters of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the headquarters of the European Union during the trip from late March to early April.