[20200813]IF10799_加强美沙核能合作的前景.pdf

https:/crsreports.congress.gov Updated August 13, 2020Prospects for Enhanced U.S.-Saudi Nuclear Energy CooperationOverview U.S. companies have provided proposals to Saudi authorities in relation to a planned tender for nuclear reactor construction in Saudi Arabia. The kingdoms nuclear energy program remains nascent, and, in recent years, the Saudi government has entered into agreements concerning possible civil nuclear cooperation with several countries (Table 1). In July 2017 the Saudi cabinet approved a National Project for Atomic Energy, including plans to build large and small nuclear reactors for electricity production and desalination amid a larger effort to diversify the Saudi economy and expand the use of renewable energy. Saudi authorities expressed hopes of signing contracts for reactor construction in 2018, but did not do so. Depending on its nature and extent, future U.S.-Saudi nuclear cooperation may require executive branch authorizations and/or congressional approval of bilateral agreements. Saudi plans also are fueling debate in Congress over regional nuclear proliferation and security dynamics. U.S.-Saudi Nuclear Cooperation In 2008, the United States and Saudi Ar