Al-Falih warns Gulf neighbors of Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant

Saudi Arabia has called for the “highest levels of transparency” regarding the safety of nuclear power plants in the region, particularly in Iran, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Monday, citing Khalid Al-Falih, Minister of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources.

The safety standards of the active Iranian Bushehr nuclear power plant are a source of “great concern” in the region, given its proximity to several Gulf cities, he warned.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is urgently required to assess the current risks associated with the plant and ensure its safety, he added during his keynote speech at the IAEA's annual 62nd General Conference.

Meanwhile, Al-Falih said that Saudi Arabia’s atomic reactor program has abided by all international treaties and conventions and best practices, and has adhered to the highest standards of safety, security and transparency.

The Kingdom is seeking to introduce atomic energy in electricity generation. Al-Falih described this step as a fundamental, strategic option for the development and integration of a sustainable, environment-friendly and efficient energy sector.