Jordan signs deal to stop nuke trafficking

WASHINGTON, Dec. 17 (UPI) -- Jordan has signed a deal to implement nuclear threat detection technologies at the country's major port in a move to prevent nuclear proliferation.

Officials from Jordan's Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration signed a cooperative deal to upgrade the infrastructure in Jordan with technologies capable of detecting nuclear and other radioactive material threats, the NNSA reported.

Officials say the radiation detection equipment will be integrated into the security infrastructure at Jordan's Port of Aqaba and also at border crossings in the country.

"The United States and Jordan have signed an agreement that will enhance Jordan's ability to prevent the smuggling of nuclear and radiological material by expanding its detection systems to include airports, seaports and land border crossings," William Tobey, NNSA deputy administrator for defense nuclear non-proliferation, said in a statement.

"We are pleased to count Jordan among our partners in the global effort to prevent nuclear terrorism and proliferation."