Turkey Joins Club of Nuclear Energy Countries: Erdogan

Turkey is joining the club of countries with nuclear energy, albeit 60 years late. This was announced by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during the ceremony for the delivery of Russian nuclear fuel to the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant.

“Our power plant has acquired the status of a nuclear facility with the supply of nuclear fuel by air and sea. The European Commission has recognized nuclear energy as 'green energy' and has removed uncertainties. With Akkuyu, we have made our country a part of this development. Our country, albeit 60 years late, is joining the club of nuclear powers in the world,” Erdogan stated.

According to him, the nuclear plant will be able to operate for up to 80 years, and through it, Turkey will save $1.5 billion annually in gas imports. He also noted that all four units of the plant will be commissioned by 2028.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, who participated via video link in the nuclear fuel delivery ceremony, referred to the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant as a priority project for both countries. “I emphasize that this is a priority project; it brings mutual economic benefits and, of course, helps strengthen the multifaceted partnership between our two states, based on friendship, mutual respect for each other's interests, and the principles of taking those interests into account,” the Russian leader noted.