
According to the Saudi Gazette, US President Donald Trump has approved a 30-year civilian nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia. The proposed pact, often referred to as a 123 Agreement under the US Atomic Energy Act of 1954, establishes a formal framework for bilateral cooperation regarding civilian nuclear infrastructure. Reports indicate that the agreement could potentially allow for uranium enrichment within the Kingdom, provided specific feasibility studies and conditions are met.
The agreement follows a preliminary understanding reached in Riyadh last year and was reportedly signed by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman. The initiative is expected to see US companies play a central role in the development of Saudi Arabia's civilian nuclear energy sector. The administration is reportedly preparing to submit the formal agreement to the US Congress for review in the coming days.
This development comes amidst broader geopolitical shifts in the region and follows recent reporting from international outlets confirming the US intent to facilitate a nuclear program for the Kingdom. The move is viewed as a significant step in deepening the strategic partnership between Washington and Riyadh, focusing on energy diversification and technological cooperation. While the agreement focuses on civilian applications, it remains a subject of intense international scrutiny regarding regional non-proliferation standards and the long-term impact on Middle Eastern security dynamics.
The core event—a US-Saudi civilian nuclear cooperation agreement—is corroborated by multiple trusted international wire services. The details regarding the 123 Agreement framework and the involvement of US officials align with broader reporting on the administration's foreign policy objectives.
Original report: Saudi Gazette