Saudi Arabia is reportedly considering a proposal from China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) to build a nuclear power plant near the border with Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. This move comes as Saudi Arabia is frustrated with the conditions set by the United States for supporting its nuclear power ambitions. The US has stipulated conditions that include not enriching uranium or mining their own uranium deposits, which are aimed at preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons. China, on the other hand, is unlikely to impose such conditions.
The Saudi government hopes that the Chinese bid will prompt the US administration, led by President Joe Biden, to ease its requirements. Saudi Arabia and China have been strengthening their ties in recent years, with Chinese President Xi Jinping visiting Saudi Arabia in December and both countries announcing investment deals worth $10 billion in June.
China has been seeking to expand its nuclear energy industry overseas and has expressed interest in building nuclear reactors as part of its Belt and Road infrastructure initiative. The Chinese government has also been increasing its diplomatic engagement in the Middle East, including facilitating a deal that normalized relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Saudi Arabia has been exploring the development of a domestic nuclear energy industry as part of its efforts to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. The country currently generates most of its power from oil and natural gas.
