US, Saudi Arabia sign civil nuclear cooperation agreement

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman signed a peaceful nuclear cooperation agreement and bilateral safeguards pact in Washington on Wednesday, establishing the legal foundation for a multi-billion-dollar partnership in civil nuclear energy, the US Energy Department said.

Commercial and security benefits

The agreements establish the legal basis for a "decades-long, multi-billion-dollar partnership" advancing commercial ties and nuclear nonproliferation objectives, according to the department. They provide "great access" for American companies in the Saudi nuclear energy program, benefiting US industry, workers and supply chains while helping meet the kingdom's energy needs.

"These agreements reflect our two nations' shared commitment to strengthening U.S.-Saudi commercial relations, delivering prosperity at home and security to our allies abroad," Wright said. "Rest assured, these agreements uphold the highest standards of nuclear safety and nonproliferation, while relying on the world's best nuclear technology and scientists, designed right here in the United States," he added.

Congressional review

The partnership is expected to expand US nuclear technology exports, create high-paying American jobs and deepen the strategic relationship between Washington and Riyadh, the department noted. The agreements also advance regional security by upholding high standards of nuclear safety while strengthening Washington's competitive edge in civil nuclear technology.

The agreement will now be transmitted to Congress for review.