Ankara:Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed intentions to strengthen Turkey's partnership with South Korea, particularly focusing on energy, technology, and logistics. The initiative includes plans for collaboration on Turkey's second nuclear power plant in Sinop, located on the Black Sea coast.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Erdogan emphasized the potential for South Korea to play a significant role in this nuclear project. A memorandum of understanding on nuclear energy cooperation was signed between the nations during South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's visit to Turkey last year. The agreement covers areas such as reactor technology, site assessment, and financing.

Turkey has been conducting feasibility studies with South Korea's state-run Korea Electric Power Corp. (KEPCO) and is evaluating the project's viability. Erdogan highlighted the importance of these negotiations and acknowledged South Korea's experience with nuclear energy. He noted that Turkey's decision would consider factors like electricity generation costs and financing.

Beyond nuclear energy, Erdogan is optimistic about expanding cooperation in semiconductors, robotics, AI, and defense technologies. He urged South Korean companies to invest more in Turkey, particularly in joint production and technology development, citing Turkey's manufacturing capabilities and strategic location as attractive factors.

Erdogan also called for increased South Korean involvement in Turkey's transport and logistics projects to address global trade route risks. He pointed to Turkey's plans to enhance connections between Asia and Europe, including reviving the historic Hejaz Railway.

On economic relations, Erdogan stressed the need to address the trade imbalance between the two countries. Turkey exported $1.14 billion worth of goods to South Korea in 2025, while imports amounted to $10.26 billion. He set a target of $15 billion in bilateral trade volume and emphasized the importance of balanced trade and investment expansion.

Erdogan also highlighted the historic ties between Turkey and South Korea, describing their relationship as "forged in blood." He expressed a commitment to strengthening this legacy and advancing cooperation as the countries approach the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027.