Saudi Arabia has reported a major discovery of uranium-bearing raw materials near Madinah, adding a new development to its nuclear ambitions.
Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman announced the discovery during the International Atomic Energy Agency General Conference in Vienna. He said the kingdom had identified 110 million tonnes of raw materials containing uranium concentrations in the Madinah region.
Uranium-Bearing Materials Found Near Madinah
The Saudi energy minister said geological and stratigraphy studies confirmed high uranium concentrations at Jabal Sayid, near Madinah.
The studies also identified high concentrations of rare earth elements alongside a large volume of uranium. The discovery could therefore add significance to Saudi Arabia’s plans for a comprehensive civil nuclear programme.
Prince Abdulaziz said Saudi Arabia does not develop its peaceful nuclear programme separately from the international community. He also rejected the idea of developing such a programme through secret facilities hidden deep within mountains.
Riyadh Emphasises Civil Nuclear Programme
Saudi Arabia is seeking a comprehensive nuclear programme focused solely on civil purposes. The energy minister made the comments while addressing the 70th Regular Session of the IAEA General Conference.
The announcement comes as Riyadh continues efforts to develop nuclear capabilities for peaceful applications. Meanwhile, the kingdom has been discussing expanded cooperation with the United States in the nuclear energy sector.
In July, the United States and Saudi Arabia reached an agreement on civil nuclear power cooperation. The agreement would allow Riyadh to enrich uranium and build nuclear reactors using US technology.
Nuclear Deal Faces Non-Proliferation Concerns
The planned nuclear cooperation agreement has drawn criticism from non-proliferation groups. The Arms Control Association has criticised the proposed “123 agreement” over its lack of an Additional Protocol.
The Additional Protocol gives the International Atomic Energy Agency additional powers to conduct inspections. These powers can include snap inspections at locations that have not been declared.
The concerns come as Saudi Arabia seeks to expand its nuclear programme while emphasising its civilian purpose. However, the latest uranium discovery adds another significant element to the kingdom’s nuclear plans.
Saudi Arabia Expands Nuclear Ambitions
The discovery of 110 million tonnes of uranium-bearing raw materials represents a major development announced by Riyadh. It also comes amid ongoing discussions over nuclear cooperation with Washington.
For Saudi Arabia, the reported findings near Madinah coincide with its stated goal of developing a comprehensive nuclear programme for civil purposes. Meanwhile, international scrutiny is likely to remain focused on how the kingdom develops and oversees its nuclear activities.
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