What it is about

The United States and Saudi Arabia are set to sign a preliminary agreement to collaborate on the development of a civil nuclear industry in Saudi Arabia. This comes into focus during the U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright’s visit to Riyadh, where he emphasized a collaborative future in the nuclear sector.

Why it matters

This development holds significance as it marks a potential strengthening of ties between Washington and Riyadh, enhancing energy cooperation and fostering a secure and peace-oriented nuclear development path in a region often seen as turbulent.

Background

The agreement in discussion revolves around Section 123 of the U.S. Atomic Energy Act of 1954, which stipulates non-proliferation criteria essential to ensure peaceful nuclear collaboration that adheres to international norms.

What they’re saying

Energy Secretary Chris Wright stressed that for a U.S. partnership in Saudi nuclear development, a 123 agreement will guide the progress, aligning both U.S. strategic interests and Saudi goals for diversifying energy resources.

The big picture

The context of these talks stems from regional security dynamics. Saudi Arabia’s stance on potentially developing nuclear arms if regional rival Iran pushes forth its military nuclear arsenal brings urgency to peaceful diplomatic resolutions.

What’s next

Details of the memorandum of cooperation will emerge later this year, mapping out a strategic blueprint for nuclear industry developments and aligning this vision with broader geopolitics involving U.S.-Saudi relations and Middle Eastern stability.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.