France, Italy sign energy cooperation agreement favouring nuclear power

PARIS, Jun 12, 2005 -- AFX-UK

The French and Italian governments yesterday signed an agreement aimed at increasing their cooperation in energy matters, including a common position in favour of nuclear power, the French Industry Ministry said.

In a statement, the ministry said the agreement, signed in Genoa, is aimed at "removing obstacles" to Franco-Italian cooperation and "favours a genuine and reciprocal opening up of energy markets".

France and Italy will develop "the nuclear option within the framework of the European single market as one of the available solutions to face up to the challenge of climate change and ensure the supply of energy needs."

Under the deal, France will provide Italy with the product of its experience in nuclear power generation.

The two countries will seek opportunities for convergence in energy production and will harmonize their policy within the EU concerning access to other markets.

On May 30, French state utility EDF and Italy's Enel SpA signed a memorandum of understanding opening up the French market to the Italian group.

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