US-Saudi civil nuclear deal

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Context:

White House National Security Adviser will visit Saudi Arabia this weekend for talks expected to touch on a civil nuclear cooperation agreement.

Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement:

It is signed under Section 123 of the U.S. Atomic Energy Act of 1954. For this reason, such agreements is commonly referred to as “123 Agreements.”
In conjunction with other nonproliferation tools, particularly the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), 123 Agreements help to advance U.S. nonproliferation principles.
The U.S. can negotiate agreements for significant civil nuclear cooperation with other nations under this act.
Nine nonproliferation criteria are outlined to prevent the misuse of nuclear technology for weapons development or sensitive material transfer.
Congressional review is required for such agreements.
As of December 6, 2022, the United States has 23 such agreements in force that govern peaceful nuclear cooperation with 47 countries, the International Atomic Energy Agency, and the governing authorities on Taiwan

Saudi Arabia's Interest in a Civil Nuclear Deal

●Despite being a major oil exporter, Saudi Arabia aims to diversify its energy sources and reduce emissions under Vision 2030. Nuclear energy is seen as a potential component of this plan.

●Critics express concerns that Saudi Arabia might seek nuclear expertise for potential weapons development, especially considering its stance on following suit if Iran acquires nuclear weapons.

Potential Benefits for the United States

●Strategically, a civil nuclear deal could contribute to broader goals such as normalizing relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel.

●It could enhance Israel's security, strengthen the coalition against Iran, and enhance U.S. ties with Saudi Arabia amid growing Chinese influence in the Gulf.

●Commercially, U.S. companies could secure contracts to build nuclear power plants in Saudi Arabia, competing with other global players like Russia and China.

Key Issues in a Saudi-U.S. Nuclear Deal:

●The potential establishment of a uranium enrichment facility on Saudi territory raises concerns about proliferation risks and control over the facility.

●Other issues include Saudi investment in U.S.-owned uranium enrichment plants and contracting U.S. companies for building nuclear reactors in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion: Safeguards are essential to prevent Saudi Arabia from using enrichment facilities for weapons development.

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-global/us-saudi-civil-nuclear-deal-9337350/

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Talks for civil nuclear deal between US and Saudi Arabia raises concerns over nuclearisation of Arabian Peninsula. Critically Analyse.(250 words)