Singapore, US Sign Landmark Nuclear Agreement

Singapore and the United States have signed a landmark '123 Agreement' to enhance cooperation on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, focusing on decarbonization and energy needs. The agreement, signed by Singapore's Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, outlines a framework for collaboration based on mutual commitments to nuclear nonproliferation and safety standards. This agreement, which requires US Congressional review and is expected to come into force by end-2024, will last 30 years and facilitate Singapore's access to US nuclear technologies and expertise. While Singapore has not yet decided to deploy nuclear energy, the agreement supports its efforts to study advanced nuclear technologies like small modular reactors, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This builds on existing civil nuclear collaborations and includes participation in US programs for understanding nuclear technologies. The US has similar agreements with 24 other countries, including China, India, and Japan.