16 Jan (NucNet): The United Arab Emirates and the US yesterday signed an agreement that establishes a legal framework for commerce in civilian nuclear energy between the two countries.
Known as a “123 Agreement,” after Section 123 of the US Atomic Energy Act, the pact was signed in Washington by UAE foreign minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al-Nahyan and US secretary of state Condoleezza Rice.
Sheikh Abdullah said that under the terms of this agreement, the UAE will gain access to “significant capabilities and experience” in the peaceful use of nuclear energy. He said his will allow the UAE to develop its civilian nuclear programme to the highest standards of safety, security and non proliferation. The agreement will also open opportunities for US firms to be active participants in the UAE nuclear energy programme.
Ms Rice said the UAE is choosing to pursue nuclear power via the import of nuclear fuel, rather than developing expensive and proliferation-sensitive fuel cycle technologies, such as uranium enrichment and reprocessing. “This is a powerful and timely model for the world and the region, and we welcome the UAE’s decision.
The 123 Agreement follows the April 2008 signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in peaceful uses of nuclear energy between the two countries.
The UAE released a detailed policy document on the evaluation and potential development of peaceful nuclear energy in April of last year. The study determined that nuclear energy is a viable and compelling option for meeting the UAE’s future electricity demand.
>>Related reports in the NucNet database (available to subscribers)
US Signs Nuclear Agreement With United Arab Emirates (News in Brief No. 49, 22 April 2008)
UAE Pledges USD 10 Million For International Fuel Bank Initiative (World Nuclear Review No. 30, 8 August 2008)
