Washington, December 19: The United States and the United Arab Emirates on Thursday brought into effect a deal to cooperate in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
In a ceremony at the State Department, US and UAE officials exchanged diplomatic notes bringing into force the Agreement for Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation, which was negotiated under previous president George W. Bush.
President Barack Obama approved the nuclear deal in May and it was sent to Congress for approval.
The deal involves the exchange of nuclear materials and components for civilian use.
It is the first such deal between the United States and a Middle Eastern nation. The United States has also pursued nuclear cooperation accords with Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Bahrain.
—Agencies