Saudi Arabia pushes to produce yellowcake for nuclear fuel
- Saudi Arabia announced plans to produce yellowcake, a uranium concentrate.
- The government aims to diversify its economy away from oil dependency.
- Concerns regarding Iran's nuclear capabilities may prompt Saudi Arabia to develop its own nuclear weapons.
Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing nuclear development following its announcements made during an energy conference. This strategic move is aligned with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the kingdom's oil-dependent economy. The energy minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, articulated plans to produce 'yellowcake,' a uranium concentrate vital for nuclear energy. Additionally, the minister hinted at selling enriched uranium on the international market. While Saudi Arabia has expressed a commitment to peaceful nuclear energy, concerns about Iran's capabilities have led to discussions about potentially developing nuclear weapons if necessary. The kingdom's ambitions began with a 2010 clequence and have evolved into concrete plans to become self-sufficient in nuclear fuel production.