Saudi Arabia approves policy on atomic energy
RIYADH, March 14, 2018
Saudi Arabia's cabinet yesterday (March 13) approved a national policy on the kingdom's atomic energy programme.
The cabinet meeting, chaired by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, was held at the Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, said a Saudi Press Agency report.
The nuclear policy includes the following:
1. Limiting all atomic development activities to peaceful purposes, within the frameworks and rights defined by international legislation, treaties and conventions;
2. Full compliance with the principle of transparency in regulatory and operational aspects;
3. Achieving nuclear safety and nuclear safety standards at nuclear and radiological facilities, in accordance with an independent regulatory and supervisory framework;
4. Optimal utilisation of national natural resources, including nuclear crudes and the application of best global standards and international practices for radioactive waste management; and
5. Achieving sustainability through developing local content in the atomic energy sector.
The cabinet also approved the organisation of the Nuclear and Radiative Control Authority, referring to the Shura Council two drafts: one on the Civil Liability System on Nuclear Harms and the other on Control System of Nuclear and Radiative Usage to study them in accordance with the regular procedures.
