The six Arab states of the Gulf Cooperation Council say they plan to seek a shared nuclear program for peaceful purposes.
In a statement Sunday, the six gulf Arab states said the region has a right to possess nuclear technology that is in accordance with international standards.
Ending a two-day summit in Saudi Arabia, the group commissioned a study to develop a shared nuclear energy program.
Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Saud al-Faisal told reporters such a program would not be a threat to anyone, and will be developed openly.
The six Arab states called for a peaceful settlement of the crisis over Iran's disputed nuclear program. They also said Israel should cooperate with international bodies over its nuclear facilities.
Formed in 1981, the Gulf Cooperation Council includes Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and the United Arab Emirates.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.