Riyadh: The Trump administration is in discussions with Saudi Arabia about the potential for granting access to US nuclear technology and uranium enrichment capabilities, as confirmed by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright on Sunday.
According to Anadolu Agency, Wright revealed these discussions ahead of President Donald Trump’s anticipated visit to Saudi Arabia. He mentioned that a broader energy cooperation agreement is expected to be finalized soon, with a more specific nuclear technology agreement likely to follow in the upcoming months. Wright stated, “I think in the short run, we’ll sign a broader agreement about cooperation across the energy space in partnerships, in investments, in investigations. Nuclear is certainly one of those areas.”
He further elaborated on the timeline for a nuclear-specific agreement, noting that it would take months rather than weeks to finalize, but expressed optimism about its likelihood. “To get a specific agreement to partner on commercial nuclear development in Saudi Arabia, that’ll take a little bit longer, that’ll be months, not weeks, but you’re gonna get there. I think it’s likely,” Wright added.
Any potential agreement on nuclear cooperation would mandate Saudi Arabia to enter into a “123 Agreement” with the US. This legal framework, under the US Atomic Energy Act, aims to prevent civilian nuclear cooperation from contributing to nuclear weapons proliferation. Wright emphasized the necessity of this agreement, stating, “That won’t happen without that agreement. We’ll need a 123 agreement and a broader, specific framework for how we’re going to cooperate together and how things will work.”
Saudi Arabia has consistently sought US assistance in developing a nuclear energy program as part of its strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil dependency. However, previous negotiations have faced challenges due to the kingdom’s hesitation to accept US conditions aimed at preventing the development or proliferation of nuclear weapons.
President Trump’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia is viewed as a move to strengthen strategic ties and enhance economic collaboration with the Gulf nation.