Turkey, U.S. agree on peaceful nuclear cooperation

The deal 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.Â

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 U.S. Department of State spokesman Sean McCormack said in a statement on Monday.    Â

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, the statement said.

The deal between the two countries 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," the statement said.

The deal 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, the statement also said.Â

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, it added.

The agreement must be submitted to the U.S. Congress, which would have 60 working days to block it with legislation if it objects, the AP reported.

The United States and Turkey are parties to the international Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.