Saudi Arabia has announced plans to shift from minimal to rigorous oversight of its nuclear facilities by the end of 2024, marking a significant change in its nuclear program’s monitoring. The kingdom intends to rescind its Small Quantities Protocol (SQP), which currently offers limited oversight, and adopt the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement (CSA) with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
This move, disclosed by Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman at the IAEA’s General Conference, reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhanced transparency as it seeks to expand its nuclear capabilities. The country’s nuclear ambitions include potential uranium enrichment, a step that raises concerns about nuclear proliferation.
The transition to the CSA will allow for more rigorous inspections and reporting, addressing long-standing calls from the IAEA for improved oversight. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi praised Saudi Arabia’s decision, noting that it will bolster the agency’s ability to ensure the peaceful use of nuclear materials.
While the switch to the CSA marks a substantial shift, the status of the Additional Protocol remains uncertain. This supplementary agreement would provide even more stringent oversight, including unannounced inspections. The IAEA has encouraged Saudi Arabia to consider adopting this protocol to further strengthen its non-proliferation commitments.
Saudi Arabia’s decision represents a crucial step in global efforts to ensure nuclear programs adhere to non-proliferation standards, enhancing international confidence in the peaceful nature of its nuclear activities.
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