St. Petersburg, Jun 19 (IANS/EFE): Both Russia and Saudi Arabia signed an inter-governmental agreement on Thursday on cooperation in nuclear energy for peaceful purposes during the International Economic Forum here.

For the first time in the history of relations between Moscow and Riyadh, both countries have laid the legal basis for activities related to nuclear energy.

The two countries will cooperate in constructing and operating nuclear power plants, maintaining the facilities, recycling radioactive material, radioisotope production for civilian use, as well as training of nuclear energy specialists.

The agreement also provides for the formation of a coordinating council and working groups to study and implement certain projects, as well as organising seminars and symposia to cooperate in the training of scientific and technical personnel.

Meanwhile, Saudi Defence Minister Mohamed bin Salman conveyed on Thursday a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin that Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz has accepted the invitation to visit Russia.

Similarly, the Saudi king extended an invitation to Putin to visit the Arab country, which Putin also accepted.