U.S.-Turkey Agreement for Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation

On June 2, 2008 in Ankara the United States of America and the Republic of Turkey brought into force the U.S.-Turkey Agreement for Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation (the “123 Agreement”) by an exchange of diplomatic notes.

The Agreement establishes a firm foundation for mutually beneficial cooperation in the important field of peaceful nuclear energy for many years to come. It opens up opportunities for U.S. and Turkish nuclear industries to cooperate in this field.

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 will permit the transfer between the two countries of technology, material, reactors, and components for nuclear research in such areas as medicine and agriculture, and for nuclear power production.

The Agreement underlines the strong commitment of both countries to the safe and secure development and use of civil nuclear energy 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 reflecting the desire of the United States and Turkey to further the objectives of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), to which both countries have long been parties.

It also reflects the strong support of both countries for the safeguards system of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as indispensable to the secure enjoyment of the benefits of trade and cooperation in the civil nuclear area.

By bringing the Agreement for Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation into force, the United States and Turkey have taken an early step in what they both expect will be a very long and fruitful partnership in efforts to enhance their energy options and promote their energy security.