Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Photo: Bahrain News Agency
In a major development aimed at boosting clean and safe energy, the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States have signed a cooperation agreement in the field of peaceful nuclear energy. This agreement is part of the official visit of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain, to the United States.
The agreement highlights the strong and growing relationship between the two nations, especially in the area of clean energy and sustainable development.
Who Signed the Agreement?
The agreement was signed by Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Marco Rubio, United States Secretary of State. The event was also attended by Shaikh Abdulla bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Bahrain's Ambassador to the United States, along with other important members of the Bahraini delegation.
What Is the Goal of This Nuclear Deal?
This cooperation agreement is focused on using nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. That means both Bahrain and the US will work together to:
- Share knowledge and technology about clean nuclear energy
- Explore new energy solutions that are environmentally friendly
- Improve energy security for Bahrain
- Help Bahrain move toward its goal of carbon neutrality by 2060
This move shows Bahrain's dedication to using low-carbon and clean energy sources, and also its support for international efforts to fight climate change and protect the environment.
A Step Forward in a Long-Standing Relationship
Dr. Al Zayani, the Foreign Minister of Bahrain, described the signing as a milestone in the relationship between the two countries. He praised the strong strategic partnership and said that Bahrain is very interested in learning from the vast experience of the United States in nuclear energy.
He also stressed that Bahrain is committed to using nuclear energy in a way that is safe and respects both national and international security.
A Part of a Bigger Agreement – C-SIPA
This nuclear energy agreement is built upon the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA), which Bahrain and the US signed in 2023. C-SIPA covers a wide range of cooperation areas like:
- Defence and military partnerships
- Security efforts against global threats
- Emerging technologies like AI, cybersecurity, and more
- Trade and investment collaborations
By adding nuclear energy cooperation to the list, both nations are expanding their partnership into a new and vital sector.
Why Nuclear Energy Now?
The world is moving towards cleaner energy sources to reduce carbon emissions and slow down global warming. Nuclear energy, when used safely, is considered one of the best low-carbon energy sources.
Dr. Al Zayani pointed out that this agreement allows both countries to work together in developing modern nuclear technology that is:
- Safe and secure
- Reliable for energy supply
- Capable of reducing dependence on fossil fuels
This not only helps Bahrain with energy needs but also shows that the country is serious about being a global player in climate action.
Supporting Public and Private Partnerships
Another key highlight of the agreement is the emphasis on public-private partnerships. This means that both governments will encourage private companies from their countries to also participate in energy projects.
These kinds of partnerships can lead to:
- New business opportunities
- Job creation
- Technological innovation
- Better resource management
This makes the agreement not just an energy deal but also a boost for economic development and business cooperation.
What Does This Mean for Bahrain?
For Bahrain, this agreement is a huge leap forward. Until now, Bahrain has been heavily dependent on oil and gas. But the world is changing, and so is Bahrain.
By tapping into peaceful nuclear energy, Bahrain can:
- Reduce its dependence on oil
- Secure a long-term energy source
- Join the global community in fighting climate change
- Create new opportunities for Bahraini students, engineers, and scientists in nuclear fields
It also supports Bahrain’s Vision 2030 for a diversified economy and greener future.
What Are the Global Impacts?
On a global level, this partnership sends a strong message that countries can work together on peaceful uses of nuclear technology. It shows that:
- Clean energy doesn’t have to come at the cost of safety
- Smaller countries like Bahrain can take big steps for sustainability
- Strategic partnerships like this can help tackle global problems together
It also strengthens diplomatic and economic ties between Bahrain and the US.
Final Words from the Leaders
Dr. Al Zayani expressed deep appreciation for the continuous support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the vision of HRH Prince Salman. He said their leadership and commitment have made this agreement possible and marked a new era in Bahrain’s development journey.
He also thanked the US leadership for recognizing the importance of such collaborations and for being a trusted partner in Bahrain’s transition towards clean and modern energy solutions.
The peaceful nuclear energy deal between Bahrain and the United States is more than just a document. It is a symbol of trust, progress, and shared goals. It combines science, diplomacy, sustainability, and economic growth into a single agreement that can shape the future for both nations.
As the world continues to search for answers to climate change and energy crises, such agreements remind us that working together is the only way forward.
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