The United States and Bahrain have signed a civilian nuclear cooperation agreement, underlining the American commitment to peaceful nuclear programs.

The agreement between the US and Bahrain marks an important step forward in civilian nuclear cooperation, according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He underlines the US willingness to work with countries that want to develop such programs without military intentions. In the context of tensions with Iran, Bahrain, a close US ally, has also announced a $17 billion investment in the US. Bahrain's crown prince said Iran should open negotiations over its nuclear program.