In a significant move towards fostering international nuclear cooperation, the United States and Bahrain have signed a Nuclear Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (NCMOU) aimed at promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The ceremony took place on Wednesday, attended by key officials including Ann Ganzer, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Arms Control and Nonproliferation, and Bahrain’s Foreign Minister, Abdullatif Al-Zayani.
During the signing event, Ganzer highlighted the NCMOU as a critical step in deepening the bilateral relationship between the two nations. “Developing civil nuclear energy at home and abroad is a major priority for the United States,” she stated, noting that this agreement builds on the existing collaboration through the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) program.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who also spoke at the event, emphasized the United States’ commitment to supporting nations in pursuing civil nuclear programs that do not threaten regional security. “This is an important signing and serves as the first step towards a deeper civil nuclear cooperation,” Rubio remarked. He praised Bahrain as a strong partner and emphasized the shared benefits of energy security, economic cooperation, and adherence to high standards of nuclear safety and nonproliferation.
Foreign Minister Al-Zayani expressed his gratitude for the partnership and the opportunities it presents for Bahrain. “The signing of this MOU on strategic civilian nuclear cooperation further advances our shared commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear technology,” he stated, reinforcing Bahrain’s intent to collaborate closely with the U.S. to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons.
The memorandum is expected to enhance the capabilities of Bahrain’s nuclear energy sector while ensuring compliance with international safety and security standards. Both nations anticipate that this cooperation will contribute significantly to their mutual prosperity and the stability of the Middle East.
As the discussions unfolded, both American and Bahraini officials underscored the importance of energy as a foundational element in advancing various industries and fostering economic growth. The signing ceremony is seen as a precursor to further discussions and collaborations between leaders of the two nations in pursuit of a secure and prosperous future.
In conclusion, the NCMOU is not just a legal agreement but also a symbol of the deepening trust and cooperation between the United States and Bahrain, setting the stage for enhanced collaboration in the civil nuclear sphere. The event has been hailed as a milestone in U.S.-Bahrain relations, promising a continued partnership focused on mutual benefits and regional stability.
