MINISTER FOR TRADE AND INVESTMENT The Hon Andrew Robb AO MP

NEW OPENING FOR AUSTRALIAN URANIUM SALES TO UAE

15 April 2014

(Translation of this article appears in Arabic section)

The entry into force of a Nuclear Cooperation Agreement between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Australia opens up new uranium sales opportunities for Australia.

Minister for Trade and Investment Andrew Robb met with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah in Abu Dhabi over night to witness the entry into force.

“This Nuclear Cooperation Agreement has been secured because Australia is a reliable supplier of uranium, and the UAE is a responsible user of nuclear energy for civilian purposes and this will open up a new long-term market for Australian uranium producers,” Mr Robb said.

Australia exported 8,391 tonnes of uranium in 2012-13, worth about $823 million.  From 2020, the UAE would hope to import around 800 tonnes per year.

Under the agreement, Australia will supply uranium for use in UAE’s developing civil nuclear power program and cooperate in nuclear-related activities such as nuclear safeguards, security, safety, and nuclear science.

“The Agreement reinforces Australia’s close and expanding relationship with the UAE, based on our mutually shared political, strategic and economic interests.”

Mr Robb is currently visiting the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to discuss investment opportunities, showcase Australia’s capability as an international education provider and strength in delivering education services in market.