Prime Highlights :
- The US and Saudi Arabia signed a 123 Agreement on civilian nuclear cooperation.
- The framework supports long-term nuclear energy collaboration and US business opportunities.
Key Facts :
- The agreement will undergo US Congress review.
- The IAEA must approve the new safeguards framework.
Background :
A 123 Agreement for nuclear cooperation between the USA and Saudi Arabia has been signed, which will set the legal basis for long-term collaboration in civilian nuclear energy. The agreement was signed by US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, alongside a bilateral safeguards agreement.
According to the US Department of Energy, the agreements support peaceful nuclear cooperation while promoting high standards of nuclear safety, security and non-proliferation. They also create opportunities for American companies to participate in Saudi Arabia’s nuclear energy programme, benefiting US industries, workers and supply chains.
Chris Wright said the agreements reflect the two countries’ shared commitment to strengthening commercial ties while supporting energy security and economic growth. He added that the framework relies on advanced US nuclear technology and maintains strong non-proliferation standards.
The agreement follows approval by US President Donald Trump of a 30-year civilian nuclear cooperation framework, which will now be reviewed by the US Congress. Under the proposed arrangement, a joint US-Saudi team will assess whether uranium enrichment in Saudi Arabia is commercially viable. If approved, American companies would build and operate the enrichment facility while retaining control over sensitive technology.
The framework also prevents Saudi Arabia from independently developing uranium enrichment technology or obtaining it from other countries during the first 10 years of the agreement. A separate bilateral safeguards arrangement will oversee the programme, with the final safeguards framework requiring approval from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
This deal is expected to be good for Saudi Arabia’s energy policy and will provide great business potential for the US civil nuclear industry.
