Lavrov says Russia is prepared to assist Türkiye in constructing a second nuclear power plant
Russia's Rosatom has accumulated valuable experience in its collaborations with Türkiye, according to Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Read Full Article at RT.com
In an interview with the Turkish daily Hurriyet on Friday, Lavrov stated, “If it is possible to agree on the parameters of Russia’s participation, it will be a win for both sides. We already have a successful example of this cooperation: The construction of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant.” He emphasized that the final decision rests with the Turkish authorities.
Lavrov noted, “Russia has adapted to the sanctions pressure and is developing successfully,” highlighting that the Russian economy is projected to grow by 3.9% this year and that the country boasts the lowest unemployment rate among major world economies at 2.4%.
He also addressed the challenges posed by the US, asserting that it has been trying to “restrict” Türkiye and other nations from engaging in joint projects and conducting business with Russia. He remarked, “The prospects for our practical cooperation depend on whether experts will be able to find mutually acceptable solutions in the near future.”
The Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, being constructed by a subsidiary of the Russian state-run nuclear corporation, is set to launch its first reactor in 2025, following delays related to equipment procurement from German tech giant Siemens, as mentioned by Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar in September. All four reactors are expected to begin operations by 2028, and when fully functional, the facility will contribute to 10% of Türkiye’s energy needs, according to Bayraktar.
The Sinop plant's site received approval in April, and Bayraktar noted earlier this year that Rosatom was “ahead” in the bidding process due to its positive experience working in Türkiye.
Camille Lefevre for TROIB News