Jordan has started its efforts to develop its own civilian nuclear program taking guidance from the nuclear program of neighbor UAE. The country, however, said that it will part itself away from uranium enrichment which is meant primarily for military purposes instead of peaceful use.

It should be recalled that Abu Dhabi managed to get backing from the international community by choosing not to enrich uranium. UAE, due to its peaceful commitments, is getting technology and required nuclear infrastructure from foreign countries for meeting its energy needs.

Dr Khaled Toukan, the Chairman of the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission (JAEC) said, "We in Jordan are watching this experiment. Indeed the experiment in Abu Dhabi is very interesting for us because its the first in the Middle East."

He said that the country honours the terms of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and it would not compromise its right to enrich uranium under the terms of the treaty. He hoped that Jordan will be a leading uranium provider in the years to come given to the possibility of having big mines of uranium in its fields.

Hoping at least 4 nuclear reactors within next 15 years, Toukan is optimistic about covering the energy needs of the country.