By Zainab Bakare
The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a landmark agreement to develop the Gulf kingdom’s civilian nuclear energy programme, opening the door to long-term cooperation in the sector.
The deal, described as a peaceful nuclear cooperation agreement, will allow American companies to play a major role in Saudi Arabia’s nuclear energy programme. Both countries also signed a bilateral safeguards agreement aimed at supporting nuclear safety and non-proliferation.
While the full text of the agreement has not been released, US media reports say it could eventually allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium for civilian energy purposes. Uranium enrichment can produce fuel for nuclear power plants but can also be used in the development of nuclear weapons.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the agreement meets the highest standards of nuclear safety and non-proliferation while strengthening US leadership in civilian nuclear technology.
Saudi Arabia said the agreement builds on existing energy cooperation between the two countries following Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Washington last year.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with renewed fighting involving the United States and Iran. Saudi Arabia has also faced security threats from Iran-backed Houthi rebels in neighbouring Yemen.
Some nuclear experts and former Israeli officials have raised concerns that allowing Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium could increase the risk of nuclear weapons development in the future.
However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed those fears, insisting the agreement does not create a risk of nuclear proliferation.
The agreement will now be sent to the US Congress for review, where some lawmakers are expected to challenge the deal despite Republicans holding majorities in both chambers.
