Energy Minister: Saudi nuclear program is peaceful, transparent, not hidden deep in mountains or bunkers

Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman has stated that Saudi Arabia's nuclear program is peaceful, transparent, and not hidden away in secret locations. Addressing the 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, the minister emphasized that the program operates in adherence to international standards and principles of transparency. Saudi Arabia remains committed to operating in cooperation with partners and the IAEA, according to Prince Abdulaziz.

The minister addressed misconceptions surrounding Saudi Arabia's nuclear agreements, reaffirming that the country continues to abide by relevant regulatory frameworks and international obligations. He highlighted that Saudi Arabia has strengthened its position as a dependable supplier and active participant in global energy markets, continuing to invest in diverse energy and mining sectors.

Integration of nuclear energy into the national energy mix, according to the minister, is crucial for supporting economic growth and security of supply, particularly as global energy demand accelerates due to expansion in technology and industry.

Prince Abdulaziz elaborated on the National Atomic Energy Project, which is actively engaged in exploring uranium resources and assessing economic opportunities for their utilization. The project involves interconnected practices aimed at diversifying energy sources, ensuring reliability, and promoting sustainability. He emphasized that Saudi Arabia is not pursuing its nuclear program in isolation but is strengthening its national and regulatory frameworks while maintaining full transparency with energy and mining sector partners.

The integration of nuclear energy into the national energy mix is being executed within a robust framework aligned with the Kingdom's international commitments.

Saudi Arabia's mineral wealth, according to the minister, is a significant asset, and the country is committed to securing mineral supply chains, developing rare earth mineral discoveries, and converting these resources into sustainable economic value. The kingdom is actively pursuing uranium exploration, including at the Jabal Sayid project in Madinah, where geological studies have revealed estimated resources of approximately 110 million tons of ore with high concentrations of rare earth minerals and associated uranium deposits.