Saudi Arabia intends to enrich uranium and engage in its sale, according to the Energy Minister

Saudi Arabia intends to capitalize on its mineral resources, including the sale of uranium, as stated by Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman on Monday.

During a conference in Dhahran, Prince Abdulaziz remarked, “We will enrich it and we will sell it and we will produce ‘yellowcake,’” referring to the powdered concentrate used in the preparation of uranium fuel for nuclear reactors. While it requires careful handling, it presents minimal radiation risks.

The kingdom is developing its nuclear program with aspirations to eventually include uranium enrichment, a delicate subject due to its implications for nuclear weaponry. Riyadh has expressed its goal of utilizing nuclear energy to diversify its energy portfolio.

Last year, Saudi Arabia announced plans to move away from light oversight of its nuclear facilities by the UN atomic agency, aiming to implement regular safeguards by the end of 2024.