The New Nation - Internet Edition

AFP, Manama

The United Arab Emirates promised to set "a good example" for the Middle East on developing civilian nuclear energy as it signed a cooperation agreement on Monday with the United States.

"We really want to be a good example for the region," Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al-Nahayan told US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice during a signing ceremony ahead of a broader Arab-US meeting in Bahrain.

"I know that you will be," Rice replied. "The UAE is a very responsible partner."

The United States and Bahrain signed a similar atomic energy cooperation memorandum of understanding in Washington last month in what the US holds up as a model for the Middle East that contrasts with Iran's contested nuclear programme. Amid concerns over Iran's nuclear aims and regional clout, the six oil-rich Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states decided in December 2006 to develop a joint nuclear technology programme for peaceful uses.