A 123 Agreement between the US and Thailand on peaceful nuclear energy has officially entered into force, paving the way for civil nuclear cooperation, energy security and commercial ties as the Southeast Asian nation considers deployment of its first reactors.

The Agreement for Cooperation Concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy – commonly known as a 123 Agreement” entered into force on 9 July, according to an 11 July statement by the US Department of State.

123 Agreements are bilateral agreements between the US and another country that establish a framework for peaceful nuclear cooperation. These agreements are crucial for the transfer of nuclear materials, equipment, and technology for civil purposes, such as nuclear energy production and research.