Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its commitment to developing nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, describing it as a strategic component of the Kingdom’s long-term energy mix and economic development plans.
The Kingdom is participating in the sixth International Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Power, which opened in Incheon and runs through October 29. The event is organised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in partnership with the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
Prince Dr. Mamdouh bin Saud bin Thunayan, chief executive of the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (KACARE), headed the Saudi delegation and delivered the Kingdom’s address at the conference.
In his remarks, Prince Mamdouh stressed that nuclear power represents a long-term strategic option for Saudi Arabia and could form an important part of the country’s future energy system. He linked the development of the sector to sustainable economic growth and the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, the national programme aimed at diversifying the economy and expanding its productive capacity.
The Saudi National Atomic Energy Project (SNAEP), he explained, is designed to extend beyond electricity generation. The initiative is intended to help establish a new economic and technical sector, support the development of advanced industries and strengthen the competitiveness of the Saudi economy.
This broader approach places nuclear energy within the Kingdom’s efforts to develop technical expertise, build industrial capabilities and expand economic activities beyond traditional energy production. The project’s stated scope reflects an ambition to create long-term value through both energy infrastructure and related technological development.
Prince Mamdouh also outlined Saudi Arabia’s approach to advancing its nuclear programme, describing it as gradual and balanced. He said the Kingdom is grounding its efforts in international standards and established practices while maintaining its commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear technology.
Cooperation with the IAEA remains part of this approach. International safeguards, safety standards and technical cooperation are important elements of the global framework for the responsible development of nuclear energy. The conference provides a forum for participating countries and international organisations to discuss nuclear power’s role in energy planning and long-term development.
The gathering in Incheon brings together ministerial-level representatives and nuclear energy stakeholders to consider the opportunities and challenges associated with expanding nuclear power. Discussions at such meetings typically address the contribution of nuclear energy to reliable electricity supplies, energy security, technological development and lower-carbon energy systems.
For Saudi Arabia, participation supports engagement with international institutions and other countries as it continues to shape its national atomic energy programme. The Kingdom’s position, as presented by Prince Mamdouh, emphasises a measured development path, international cooperation and the wider economic potential of nuclear technology.
The conference is scheduled to continue until October 29, providing an international platform for further discussion on nuclear power policy and implementation.
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