United States and Bahrain Sign Civil Nuclear Cooperation MoU

US, Bahrain Sign Nuclear Cooperation Deal

WASHINGTON, 16 July 2025 – The United States and the Kingdom of Bahrain have agreed to deepen their partnership in peaceful civilian nuclear energy.

On Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Civil Nuclear Cooperation (NCMOU). The agreement aims to:

• Enhance both countries’ energy security
• Expand economic ties and joint ventures
• Uphold the highest standards of nuclear safety, security and non-proliferation

This new MoU builds on the existing Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA), under which the two nations already cooperate on defence, trade and energy.

“Peaceful nuclear cooperation can deliver reliable, low-carbon power and reinforce our shared security goals,” a State Department spokesperson said.

First introduced during President Trump’s term, NCMOUs set the stage for U.S. industry to work with overseas partners. While this agreement does not itself authorise specific projects, it paves the way for future deals in technology, training and services.

The United States and Bahrain have enjoyed a long-standing relationship in security, energy and commerce. This latest step signals Washington’s confidence in Bahrain as a key partner in the Gulf region and their joint commitment to responsible energy policy.