Qatar, Saudi Arabia Sign MoU to Strengthen Cooperation in Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection

Doha: The State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance bilateral cooperation in the fields of nuclear safety and radiation protection, reinforcing collaboration between the two countries in the peaceful and safe use of nuclear technologies. The agreement reflects the close fraternal ties between Qatar and Saudi Arabia and their shared commitment to expanding technical cooperation and exchanging expertise in this vital sector.

The MoU was signed on behalf of Qatar by HE Eng. Abdulaziz bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Mahmoud, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, while Dr. Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Issa, Chief Executive Officer of Saudi Arabia’s Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission, signed on behalf of the Kingdom.

Following the signing ceremony, HE Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, Qatar’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, met with Dr. Al Issa and the accompanying Saudi delegation. The meeting reviewed existing cooperation between the two countries in nuclear safety and radiation protection and explored opportunities to strengthen technical collaboration and the exchange of expertise in areas of mutual interest.

Signed between Qatar’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and Saudi Arabia’s Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission, the MoU establishes a framework for regulating and expanding cooperation in accordance with the laws and regulations of both countries. It is designed to promote the safe and peaceful application of nuclear technologies while enhancing environmental and public health protection.

The agreement covers a broad range of areas, including nuclear safety and security, radiation protection, oversight of nuclear facilities and radiation practices, radiation monitoring, laboratory analysis, emergency preparedness and response to cross-border nuclear and radiological incidents, and the safe transport of radioactive materials. It also provides for the exchange of scientific research, technical documentation, specialists, training programmes, workshops, conferences and technical assistance between the two sides.

Speaking after the signing, Eng. Al Mahmoud described the MoU as a significant milestone in Qatari-Saudi cooperation, saying it reflects the historic and deep-rooted relations between the two neighbouring countries. He noted that both sides are committed to expanding technical and scientific cooperation, benefiting from shared expertise, and launching joint programmes and projects that serve their mutual interests.

To ensure effective implementation, the agreement provides for the establishment of a joint committee and specialised working groups that will oversee cooperation programmes, coordinate technical activities, and monitor the progress of agreed projects. These mechanisms are expected to strengthen institutional collaboration and support the continued development of nuclear safety and radiation protection capabilities in both countries.

The MoU represents another step in the growing strategic partnership between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, underscoring both nations’ commitment to enhancing regional cooperation, sharing knowledge and expertise, and maintaining the highest standards of nuclear and radiological safety in line with international best practices.