Jordan in talks with Areva over nuclear reactor

AMMAN Aug 27 (Reuters) - Jordan is in discussions with French nuclear energy producer Areva CEPFi.PA to construct a nuclear reactor for civilian purposes, officials said on Wednesday.

They said the company was a frontrunner among several international firms in talks with the kingdom to develop a nuclear reactor as part of a longer term strategy of the energy importer to meet rapidly rising demand for power.

No details emerged on the nature of the reactor sought.

Jordan has signed agreements with France, China and Canada to co-operate on the development of civilian nuclear power and the transfer of technology.

Only once a government-to-government agreement has been signed can Western reactor vendors gain access to the local market.

Areva and French energy giant Total (TOTF.PA) and energy group Suez LYOE.PA have already partnered up to supply two third generation nuclear reactors to the United Arab Emirates. (Reporting by Suleiman al-Khalidi; editing by James Jukwey)