US President Donald Trump today approved a landmark agreement with Saudi Arabia to establish a civilian nuclear program. The project will generate tens of billions of dollars in economic activity.
According to The Wall Street Journal, the deal aims to give American companies a central role in developing Saudi Arabia’s nuclear infrastructure. The arrangement would also limit opportunities for foreign competitors to participate in the program.
One key element could allow US companies to build a uranium enrichment facility in Saudi Arabia.
However, Washington and Riyadh would first conduct a joint review to determine whether the facility is necessary.
Nuclear deal likely to face scrutiny
The agreement would also give the United States a role in monitoring Saudi Arabia’s nuclear activities.
Trump administration officials believe greater US involvement could help prevent Riyadh from developing nuclear weapons capabilities.
Meanwhile, the agreement is expected to reach Congress for review in the coming days.
However, some lawmakers could oppose the deal because of concerns about expanding nuclear capabilities in the Middle East.
Saudi Arabia is a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency, which promotes peaceful nuclear energy and monitors countries for potential secret weapons programmes.
Nevertheless, the agreement is reportedly not expected to include the IAEA’s Additional Protocol.
The protocol would provide broader access for inspections and strengthen international monitoring and verification.
The deal could therefore become a major test of US policy toward nuclear cooperation in the Middle East.
