The National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac held discussions with the US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, focusing on Korea's efforts towards civil uranium enrichment and spent fuel reprocessing in accordance with recent summit agreements.
Wisner and Wright convened in Washington to deliberate on the collaborative document circulating the results of the bilateral meetings between President Lee Jae Myung and US President Donald Trump on matters of trade and security, as reported by informed sources.
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In the collaborative document, the US has pledged its support to South Korea in its endeavor towards civil uranium enrichment and spent fuel reprocessing for peaceful purposes.
Additionally, the joint fact sheet highlights the endorsement from the US and the dedication to furthering Seoul's efforts in developing nuclear-powered submarines.
The two parties probably deliberated on advancing the implementation of the agreements made during the summit, with special emphasis on supporting Seoul's pursuit of uranium enrichment and spent fuel reprocessing capabilities for peaceful purposes, as well as the development of strategic naval vessels.
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Under a bilateral energy agreement with the United States, South Korea is granted permission to enrich uranium to a maximum of 20 percent and to reprocess spent fuel, subject to approval from the US thereby preventing it from independently engaging in these processes.
Korea is said to be pursuing a special arrangement with the US concerning nuclear-powered submarines, specifically seeking an exemption under Section 91 of the Atomic Energy Act. This provision grants authority to the US president to approve the transfer of nuclear materials for the purpose of military use.
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Australia entered into a distinct agreement with the United States for its nuclear-powered submarine initiative as part of the AUKUS security alliance. Wi, upon his arrival in Washington on Tuesday, informed the press that he would be investigating the feasibility of negotiating an individualized agreement that would permit this exception.