In brief
The United States and Saudi Arabia have just signed a nuclear cooperation agreement, formalised by U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman. The pact allows Saudi Arabia to import nuclear technology, equipment and fuel from the U.S., while giving the U.S. strategic access for its own energy and counter‑terrorism needs. The deal could raise new scrutiny from the International Atomic Energy Agency as it marks the first time Saudi Arabia is moving toward civilian nuclear enrichment. BBC journalist Sarah Smith explains the key provisions and potential future developments of the agreement.
The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a nuclear cooperation agreement. The deal was formalised by U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman on Wednesday.
Under the agreement, Saudi Arabia will be able to import nuclear technology, equipment and fuel from the U.S. In return, the U.S. will gain access to a strategic partner for its own nuclear energy strategy and for counter‑terrorism technology.
The deal will probably trigger additional scrutiny by the International Atomic Energy Agency, as it is the first time Saudi Arabia has moved toward nuclear enrichment for civilian use.
The BBC’s Sarah Smith has explained the key points and what could happen next on the bilateral talks.
