CHENGDU, Oct 20 (Xinhua) – As the world intensifies efforts to harness fusion energy, China is emerging as a key innovator and trusted partner in advancing global fusion research and technology.
China Praised as Key Partner in ITER Project
Pietro Barabaschi, Director-General of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), lauded China as “a very strong partner” during the Second Ministerial Meeting of the IAEA World Fusion Energy Group and the 30th IAEA Fusion Energy Conference held in Chengdu, Sichuan Province.
“China’s contribution has been ever-growing — not only in the delivery of components but, most significantly, in the assembly of ITER by Chinese companies,” Barabaschi said.
He noted that ITER exemplifies unity and cooperation: “Countries do not always get along, but when it comes to ITER, you will see everybody working with the same objective.”
IAEA Recognizes China’s Leadership
IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi also acknowledged China’s pioneering role, noting that the Southwestern Institute of Physics (SWIP), under the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), has been designated the IAEA’s first Collaborating Center for Fusion Energy Research and Training.
Grossi said the distinction reflects China’s long-term commitment and institutional excellence in nuclear fusion research.
Fusion Energy: A Clean and Safe Future
Fusion energy — a key direction in the peaceful use of nuclear energy — offers several advantages over fission: higher energy density, abundant raw materials, minimal radioactive waste, and intrinsic safety.
Shan Zhongde, Director of the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), said China is prioritizing the development of fusion energy through large-scale scientific facilities, integration of industry and research, and strong international partnerships.
“China will continue to work with the IAEA, ITER, and all nations to promote sustainable energy development and contribute Chinese wisdom to building a clean and beautiful world,” Shan said.
Milestones in China’s Fusion Research
As a major ITER partner, China has successfully designed, manufactured, and delivered 18 key components and systems, including magnet supports, blanket shield modules, and feeder systems. In April, the final Correction Coil In-Cryostat Feeder components were shipped to France, completing the full set required for ITER’s magnet feeder system.
Domestically, China’s innovation momentum remains strong. The HL-3 tokamak, an “artificial sun” facility in Chengdu, achieved atomic nucleus and electron temperatures exceeding 100 million°C in 2025. Similarly, the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) in Hefei set a world record by maintaining high-confinement plasma for 1,066 seconds.
Global Collaboration and Open Science
China has opened its HL-3 facility for international collaboration — now the only ITER satellite device in China. The country has forged partnerships with over 140 fusion research institutions in more than 50 countries, reflecting its open and cooperative approach to scientific progress.
Chen Jiming, ITER first wall project leader at CNNC, said the development of extreme-temperature-resistant components such as the “first wall” has spurred both technological innovation and industrial upgrading in China.
Driving a Sustainable Energy Future
Through continuous innovation and close international cooperation, China is contributing its technological strength, scientific vision, and policy leadership to the global pursuit of fusion energy — advancing humanity’s goal of achieving a clean, safe, and sustainable energy future.
This news was originally published by Xinhua.