The United States and the Republic of El Salvador have taken a significant step toward strengthening bilateral ties in the field of energy security and technological collaboration. On February 3, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Salvadoran Foreign Minister Alexandra Hill Tinoco signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding Concerning Strategic Civil Nuclear Cooperation (NCMOU), marking a new era in peaceful nuclear advancement between the two nations.
A Milestone in U.S.-El Salvador Relations
The signing of this agreement underscores the long-standing diplomatic relationship between Washington and San Salvador, built on cooperation in security, commerce, and energy. With this new agreement, both countries aim to explore civil nuclear energy solutions that can contribute to energy diversification, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
“This Memorandum of Understanding is a vital step in deepening our strategic partnership,” said Secretary Rubio. “It will enable both nations to explore opportunities for clean, reliable, and secure energy solutions, while upholding the highest standards of nuclear safety, security, and nonproliferation.”
Foreign Minister Hill Tinoco echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the potential benefits of civil nuclear energy in boosting El Salvador’s energy sector, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and enhancing technological capabilities.
The Significance of the NCMOU
The Nuclear Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (NCMOU) is a key diplomatic mechanism that lays the foundation for closer collaboration on civil nuclear technologies, research, and regulatory frameworks. First introduced during President Donald Trump’s initial term in office, NCMOUs serve as a gateway for U.S. allies to develop responsible nuclear energy programs while benefiting from American technological expertise and industry leadership.
This agreement is expected to:
✅ Expand energy cooperation by fostering nuclear energy as a clean and efficient power source for El Salvador.
✅ Strengthen nonproliferation efforts by ensuring adherence to global nuclear safety standards.
✅ Create economic opportunities through joint research, infrastructure investments, and knowledge exchange programs.
✅ Enhance regional stability by reinforcing strategic ties between the U.S. and Central America.
A Step Toward Energy Security and Sustainability
El Salvador, like many nations in Latin America, is exploring diverse energy alternatives to meet rising electricity demands while minimizing environmental impact. The introduction of nuclear energy—through collaboration with the U.S.—could offer a sustainable, long-term solution to bolster the nation’s energy independence and economic resilience.
U.S. officials emphasized that this initiative aligns with broader Indo-Pacific and Western Hemisphere energy strategies, aiming to counter foreign influence from adversarial nations while ensuring that nuclear technology is used responsibly.
Looking Ahead
With the agreement in place, the next phase will involve technical assessments, regulatory discussions, and feasibility studies to determine the most effective ways for El Salvador to integrate civil nuclear energy into its national grid.
The U.S. government has pledged continued support, including knowledge transfer, training programs, and assistance from American nuclear experts. Private sector partnerships may also emerge, enabling investment in nuclear technology and infrastructure development.
As the U.S. and El Salvador move forward with this historic initiative, the NCMOU represents a shared commitment to innovation, economic prosperity, and global energy security—reinforcing the strength of their diplomatic and strategic alliance.