Tokyo - Japan signed an agreement Tuesday to offer Jordan assistance in developing nuclear power plants, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry said. The Japanese government agreed to help the Middle Eastern nation introduce nuclear power generation and guarantee non-proliferation of nuclear technology, the ministry said.

With Japan's support, Jordan is aiming to become self-sufficient in generating energy by 2030 and plans to begin operating a nuclear plant by 2017.

The agreement was signed by Jordan's King Abdullah II, who is on a three-day visit to Japan, and Foreign Minister Hirofumi Nakasone.

The two governments agreed to outline continued cooperation in development of nuclear technology.

Japan manages 53 reactors since it began developing the technology 50 years ago, the ministry said. (dpa)