RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and the United States have signed a landmark agreement on cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, marking a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between the two countries.
The agreement, known as the “123 Agreement,” was formally signed on Wednesday by Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman and US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, alongside a bilateral safeguards agreement designed to support civilian nuclear cooperation.
The Saudi Ministry of Energy said the deal builds on the long-standing strategic relationship between Riyadh and Washington and follows the successful conclusion of bilateral negotiations announced by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during his visit to the United States last November.
According to the ministry, the agreement is intended to deepen cooperation in the fields of energy, advanced technologies, and peaceful nuclear development. It will facilitate the exchange of expertise, technical knowledge, and innovation while promoting collaboration in the civilian nuclear sector.
The ministry added that the partnership is also aimed at ensuring the highest international standards of nuclear safety, nuclear security, and nuclear nonproliferation, reinforcing both countries’ commitment to the responsible use of nuclear technology.
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Commenting on the agreement, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the accords demonstrate the shared commitment of both nations to expanding commercial relations, strengthening energy cooperation, and enhancing regional and international security.
The signing of the agreement represents a major step forward in US-Saudi energy relations and is expected to open new opportunities for investment, technological cooperation, and the development of Saudi Arabia’s peaceful nuclear energy program.
