The research reactor at the Birine Nuclear Research Centre in Algeria, a China-assisted project designed by the China Institute of Atomic Energy (CIAE) and undertaken by the China Zhongyuan Engineering Corporation (CZEC) in the 1980s, was the first large-scale nuclear facility exported by China. It can be used in fundamental scientific research, civil nuclear energy technology development and application, and medical isotope production, playing an important role in the field of science and technology in #Algeria. The research reactor was recognized as a model of South-South cooperation by the IAEA, and won first prize in China's National Science and Technology Progress Awards.

To make full use of the Es-Salam ("peace" in Arabic) research reactor and its facilities, and to meet the demand of Algeria in conducting nuclear scientific research and production, #CNNC, together  with  the  National Atomic Energy Commission of Algeria, upgraded and renovated the Birine Nuclear Research Centre (Phase I & Phase II) between 2014 and 2019, injecting new vitality into the project. The upgrading and renovation efforts have effectively improved Algeria's use of nuclear technology.