RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s nuclear program is making strides as the Kingdom works toward diversifying its energy sources and supporting sustainable growth, said a senior minister.
According to Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, the country is advancing its nuclear development, with a focus on adhering to International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards agreements.
“We are currently working with the agency to finalize all necessary subsidiary agreements for the Small Quantities Protocol to be effectively rescinded by the end of December of this year,” the minister said.
At the 68th General Conference of the IAEA in Vienna, Prince Abdulaziz highlighted the importance of the nuclear project in the context of Saudi Arabia’s broader energy transition.
The minister added that in July, Saudi Arabia submitted a request to terminate the small quantities protocol and transition to full implementation of the safeguards agreement.
Under this agreement, the IAEA can verify that a state is fulfilling its international commitments and not using nuclear programs for weapons development.
Prince Abdulaziz reiterated during his address that Saudi Arabia remains committed to meeting its international obligations and will utilize nuclear energy exclusively for peaceful purposes.
The first atomic power plant, slated for construction at Khor Duwaiheen on the Arabian Gulf between Qatar and the UAE, is expected to produce 2.8 gigawatts of power.
This development aligns with Saudi Arabia’s strategic goals to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and enhance energy sustainability.
Launched in 2017, Saudi Arabia’s National Atomic Energy Project is a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s strategy to diversify its energy sources and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
The project aims to integrate nuclear power into the national energy mix, enhancing sustainability and fulfilling international commitments.
“Saudi Arabia continues to implement its national nuclear energy program with all its importance including the construction of the first nuclear power plant to contribute to the national energy mix, achieve sustainable national development, and fulfill international commitments,” said the energy minister.
He also noted that Saudi Arabia has made substantial progress in its nuclear ambitions, having completed all essential administrative preparations for the nuclear regulatory framework and met the requirements for a comprehensive safeguards agreement. This progress reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing its nuclear program while ensuring regulatory compliance and international cooperation.
He added that Saudi Arabia consistently prioritizes transparency in the development of its nuclear projects, emphasizing the Kingdom’s aim to serve as a role model for other nations.
“In the Kingdom, we have nothing to hide. This is the driving force behind the Kingdom. We want to be a role model for other countries,” said Prince Abdulaziz.
The Saudi minister also expressed his satisfaction with the IAEA’s efforts in upholding security within the nuclear sector.
“We are pleased to see the fruits of the initiative to establish the IAEA’s International Nuclear Security Training Center in Seibersdorf and its tangible impact on strengthening the national capabilities of member states and the global nuclear security system,” added the minister.
During his speech, Prince Abdulaziz also extended his congratulations to South Korea’s permanent representative, Sang Wook Ham, on being elected president of the IAEA’s 68th General Conference.
MoU signed
The IAEA and Saudi Arabia’s Women and Energy Association on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding in Riyadh.
The agreement is designed to strengthen collaboration in capacity building, with a particular emphasis on enhancing the role of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The MoU also aims to foster innovation in nuclear sciences to support a sustainable future.
The agreement was formalized by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and Women and Energy Association Chairperson Princess Mishaal bint Saud Al-Shalan, with Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman in attendance.
