Singapore signs nuclear agreement with US

In a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties and advancing clean energy goals, the United States and Singapore have signed a pivotal civil nuclear cooperation agreement, known as a “123 Agreement”. According to the joint statement, the signing ceremony took place on 31 July 2024 in Singapore, with US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan formalising the accord.

The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) explains that 123 Agreements, named after Section 123 of the U.S. Atomic Energy Act, are crucial for significant transfers of nuclear material or equipment from the United States. These agreements establish the legal framework for substantial nuclear cooperation with other countries, requiring partners to adhere to stringent non-proliferation requirements.

This agreement, as noted in the joint statement, builds upon a decade of collaboration in nuclear safety and technology, setting the stage for deeper cooperation in peaceful nuclear endeavours. It emphasises both nations’ commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and adherence to the highest international standards of safety and security.

In his remarks, Secretary Blinken highlighted that a key focus of the partnership will be exploring advanced nuclear energy technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), as potential tools to address climate change whilst meeting critical energy needs. SMRs, are considered more appropriate for densely populated areas with limited land, such as Singapore. These reactors offer several advantages over traditional nuclear power plants, including improved safety features and significantly smaller emergency planning zones (EPZs). “Current conventional nuclear technologies are not suitable for Singapore. But given advances in civil nuclear technology, we need to stay abreast of breakthroughs in this rapidly evolving field,” said Dr Balakrishnan during the signing.

According to a recent CNA article, for Singapore, this agreement opens doors to valuable expertise and information, supporting its ongoing evaluation of nuclear energy options as part of its broader decarbonisation strategy. (The NNSA notes that such agreements facilitate cooperation in areas like technical exchanges, scientific research, and safeguards discussions.) The CNA article also notes that while Singapore has not made any decisions regarding the deployment of nuclear energy, this agreement facilitates its capability-building journey and allows for closer collaboration with US institutions and other countries utilising US-origin nuclear technology.

As the world grapples with the dual challenges of energy security and climate change, this agreement represents a forward-thinking approach to exploring sustainable energy solutions. It underscores the importance of international cooperation in advancing technological frontiers responsibly and safely. With this agreement, Singapore joins a group of 48 other countries, as well as the International Atomic Energy Agency, that have 123 Agreements with the United States.