Canada, Kazakhstan start nuclear cooperation

Canada heralded Friday the implementation of a civilian nuclear cooperation agreement with Kazakhstan that allows nuclear technology to be exported to the former Soviet republic.

The deal, which was inked in 2009, "marks our shared commitment to expanding cooperation in the nuclear sector in a safe and secure manner, while strengthening economic ties between our two countries," said Lynne Yelich, a junior minister for foreign affairs.

The agreement allows Canadian companies to export nuclear materials for peaceful uses, in accordance with Canada's nuclear non-proliferation policy, said a government statement.

It will also facilitate joint commercial ventures, including research and development.

Canada, which exports nearly Can$1 billion worth of uranium annually, recently signed similar deals with China, India, the United Arab Emirates.