ITER: “A contribution to world peace”

Shan Zhongde, one of China’s most senior officials responsible for nuclear energy, space and defence-related industries, visited ITER on Friday 11 September and praised the project’s scientific and diplomatic significance. 

“By sharing its experience and lessons learned, ITER can help advance fusion development around the world and bring us closer to realizing fusion energy,” said Shan. “ITER is making significant progress and, through the cooperation it brings together, is making an important contribution to world peace.”

The China Atomic Energy Authority is the government agency responsible for overseeing nuclear energy in China. Shan also serves as Vice Minister of Industry and Information Technology and Administrator of the China National Space Administration.

As part of his visit, Shan toured the Tokamak Complex, spoke with members of the CNPE Consortium, and met with senior leaders, including ITER Chief Scientist Alain Bécoulet.

“Having worked in fusion research for nearly four decades, I am convinced that ITER's greatest strength lies in its international nature,” said Bécoulet after the visit. “Scientific breakthroughs emerge when diverse expertise and perspectives come together. ITER is not only advancing fusion energy; it is building a unique framework of trust and cooperation that can accelerate the journey from scientific discovery to societal benefit.”