As Prepared for Delivery

“There is no clear line between a civilian nuclear energy program and a nuclear weapons program.  Therefore, I think it is vital that Congress exercise its oversight power and hold hearings to carefully consider the terms and implications of every nuclear cooperation agreement that comes before us.

“The United Arab Emirates and the United States have an important relationship, one that I hope that we will continue to strengthen.  I also understand the growing energy needs that all countries face, and appreciate the interest of the UAE in seeking alternative and diversified sources of energy.

“However, I have strong concerns about expanding the use of nuclear energy, particularly in this volatile region, before we have an international regime in place to ensure that countries will not export enrichment and reprocessing technologies.  And if an effective international agreement prohibiting the transfer of these technologies is not forthcoming, we need to have a serious discussion about whether we should continue following the current course of promoting nuclear energy and entering into these cooperation agreements.

“I am concerned that an increased reliance on nuclear energy will lead a growing number of countries to seek the ability to produce nuclear fuel.  While we may receive assurances today that this is not the intent, the history of nations relying on foreign fuel supplies is not encouraging.  We need look no further than Iran to find a country for which the United States used to provide nuclear fuel that now insists on having its own fuel supply for what it claims are civilian purposes.    

“Any nation with enrichment or reprocessing capabilities poses two threats:  First, it can spark what amounts to an arms race, as regional adversaries seek to have their own capabilities.  Second, it increases the risk that weapons-grade materials could fall into the hands of terrorists.  “In the case of this particular agreement, we must also be certain that the UAE is committed to ensuring that its territory is never used again as a transit point for illicit nuclear trade; this will require ensuring that adequate export controls exist.

“I want to emphasize that my concerns are not targeted at the UAE.  Rather, I have serious reservations about committing to any nuclear cooperation agreement until there is an international agreement that effectively prohibits the transfer of enrichment and reprocessing technologies.”