WASHINGTON: Bahrain and the US yesterday agreed to co-operate on civil nuclear power in a deal held out as a model for nations to meet their energy needs, cut greenhouse gas emissions and prevent the spread of sensitive atomic technology. Bahrain said it would not seek nuclear fuel cycle technologies and would buy fuel on the international market.

"This stands in direct contrast to Iran's nuclear activities," the US State Department said announcing the agreement signed by US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Foreign Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa.

The White House described the agreement as "a tangible expression of the US' desire to co-operate with states in the Middle East, and elsewhere, that want to develop peaceful nuclear power in a manner consistent with the highest standards of safety, security and non-proliferation."

Bahrain also endorsed the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism, a US and Russian-backed effort to prevent militant groups from obtaining nuclear weapons.

The Foreign Minister said Bahrain took into consideration its commitments towards GCC states, its other neighbours and international security to ensure the security, non-proliferation and safe use of nuclear energy.

He said the kingdom's activities would be within the framework of its commitments towards the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Shaikh Khalid added the country would co-operate with the US under the Memorandum of Understanding in line with its commitments towards the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

US President George W Bush yesterday hosted a luncheon in honour of His Majesty King Hamad, currently visiting the US.