Statements by U.S. Officials
Statement by Sean McCormack, Spokesman
U.S.-Turkey Agreement for Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation
(123 Agreement)
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
June 2, 2008
On June 2, the U.S. and Turkey brought into force the U.S.-Turkey Agreement for Cooperation Concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy through an exchange of diplomatic notes.
The Agreement provides a comprehensive framework for peaceful nuclear cooperation between the United States and Turkey under agreed nonproliferation conditions and controls. It establishes a firm foundation for mutually beneficial cooperation in the important field of peaceful nuclear energy consistent with nonproliferation principles.
The Agreement has an initial term of 15 years, with provision for automatic renewal in increments of five years each unless either party decides to terminate it. It opens opportunities for U.S. and Turkish industries by permitting the transfer between the two countries of technology, material, reactors, and components for nuclear research and nuclear power production.
The Agreement underlines the strong commitment of both countries to the development and use of civil nuclear energy in a safe and secure manner to advance the welfare and prosperity of their citizens. The Agreement also demonstrates the commitment of two close friends and allies to promoting a strong global nuclear nonproliferation regime. By bringing the Agreement for Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation into force today, the United States and Turkey have taken an important step in what they both expect will be a long and fruitful partnership to enhance nonproliferation and energy security.
For more information on the agreement, please see the fact sheet at http://www.state.gov/p/eur/rls/fs/105492.htm