The Problem with the Saudi Nuclear Program

Reports by the Wall Street Journal and New York Times that Saudi Arabia is cooperating with China on a clandestine uranium extraction capability have raised the profile of the Saudi nuclear energy program. But the problem with the Saudi nuclear program is not yellowcake, according to VCDNP Research Associate Noah Mayhew, but rather the country's safeguards status with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

In an op-ed published by Inkstick, Mr. Mayhew argues that "people are panicking about the wrong thing." He says that the international community's response to the alleged uranium extraction facility should be to put pressure on Saudi Arabia to bring its safeguards agreement up to the "de facto modern standard." This includes rescinding its outdated small quantities protocol (SQP) and concluding an additional protocol (AP) with the IAEA.

By taking these steps, Saudi Arabia could take full advantage of international partnerships in the development of its nuclear energy program, as well as nuclear techniques that can be used for development, such as water desalination. Mr. Mayhew also highlights that, as Saudi Arabia is in search of suppliers for its planned power reactors, nuclear supplier countries have a unique opportunity to influence the kingdom's nuclear energy program.

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Feature Image: IAEA Safeguards Implementation Guide for States with Small Quantities Protocols,
IAEA Services Series No. 22, available here.