Saudi Arabia is reportedly mulling over a proposal from China to construct a nuclear power plant, as revealed by The Wall Street Journal. This potential decision holds the capacity to disrupt U.S. intentions within the kingdom.

Citing sources familiar with the matter, the newspaper disclosed that China National Nuclear Corp (CNNC), a state-owned entity, has submitted a bid to establish a nuclear facility in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, situated close to the borders of Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

The Chinese foreign ministry, while refraining from confirming the report, expressed a commitment to continuing "mutually beneficial cooperation" with Saudi Arabia in various sectors, including civil nuclear energy. They emphasized adhering to international non-proliferation obligations.

At the time of reporting, CNNC had not responded to requests for comment. Similarly, Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry has not provided any official statement regarding the matter.

It's worth noting that Saudi Arabia had previously sought cooperation from the United States to initiate a civilian nuclear program, potentially as part of a broader normalization deal with Israel.

U.S. officials have historically maintained their willingness to share nuclear technology, but on the condition that the agreement shall prevent the enrichment of uranium or reprocessing of plutonium – processes that could lead to the development of nuclear weapons.

According to the report, Saudi officials acknowledged that their engagement with China was strategically aimed at pressuring the Biden administration to reconsider its non-proliferation prerequisites.

The article revealed that Saudi officials expressed a preference for South Korean state utility Korea Electric Power to construct the plant's reactors, potentially with U.S. operational involvement, but without complying with the proliferation controls that Washington generally imposes.

Should negotiations with the U.S. fall through, the Saudi officials indicated that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was prepared to advance negotiations with the Chinese company.

This development has also sparked concerns from Israel's energy minister, who opposes Saudi Arabia's potential entry into civilian nuclear development as part of a broader U.S.-Saudi alignment.

Given the considerable economic ties between China and Saudi Arabia, particularly in energy, China's emergence as a potential partner in the nuclear sector is significant. China is the world's leading importer of crude oil, and Saudi Arabia stands as a major exporter.

While Saudi Arabia has deepened its ties with China in recent times, it has concurrently sought to maintain a delicate equilibrium between China and its longstanding security partner with the United States.

Image source: ET