U.S.-Saudi Nuclear and Uranium Deal Likely Before President Donald Trump’s Visit – Al Arabiya
April 14, 2025 – Al Arabiya:
The United States is continuing discussions with Saudi Arabia regarding granting the kingdom the right to develop nuclear technology and enrich uranium, according to U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright.
In an interview with Al Arabiya News on Sunday, Wright said there is a strong possibility that a comprehensive energy cooperation agreement between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia will be signed ahead of President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the Kingdom. A specific agreement on nuclear energy, however, may be signed at a later stage.
“In the short term, we will sign a broad agreement covering partnerships, investments, and research in the energy sector. Nuclear energy will undoubtedly be one of those sectors,” said Wright.
He added:
“It will take a bit more time to sign a specific deal for commercial nuclear development in Saudi Arabia — not weeks, but months. However, I believe it is possible, and it will happen.”
To finalize such a deal, Saudi Arabia must sign a “123 Agreement”, which is a requirement under the U.S. Atomic Energy Act for civilian nuclear cooperation. The agreement is aimed at preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons.
Wright emphasized:
“Without this agreement, it's not possible. We must have a 123 Agreement and a clear framework that will determine how our cooperation will proceed.”
Saudi Arabia has long sought U.S. support to build a nuclear energy program as part of its effort to diversify its economy away from oil dependency. However, earlier negotiations were stalled due to Riyadh's reluctance to accept U.S. conditions aimed at preventing the development of nuclear weapons.
President Donald Trump is expected to visit Saudi Arabia next month. The visit is seen as a significant step toward strengthening strategic ties and expanding economic cooperation between the two nations.
