Saudi energy minister announced on state TV that the kingdom has identified
about 110 mln tonnes of uranium-bearing ore, with higher uranium concentrations
in the Medina region. Riyadh is also assessing whether uranium can be recovered
as a byproduct from its large phosphate industry. Officials cautioned that 110
mln tonnes of ore does not equal 110 mln tonnes of recoverable uranium;
recoverable volumes will depend on ore grade, geology and economics. The
discovery supports Saudi plans to add nuclear power to its energy mix.
