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President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung discussed expanding bilateral cooperation into nuclear energy during a state visit to Ankara, with officials from both nations continuing negotiations on establishing a nuclear power plant in Türkiye.
The two leaders presided over a signing ceremony for multiple agreements at the Presidential Complex on Monday, followed by a joint press conference where Erdogan emphasized the deepening strategic partnership between the countries. "Discussions between our relevant institutions are ongoing regarding the establishment of a nuclear power plant," Erdogan said.
The visit comes as bilateral trade approaches the previously established target of $15 billion, with South Korea representing Türkiye's second-largest trading partner in the Asia-Pacific region. The countries formalized their strategic partnership in 2012, building on diplomatic relations that began in 1957.
Beyond nuclear energy, the two nations reached an agreement to jointly develop a blood plasma project, Erdogan announced. He also highlighted existing defense industry collaboration, citing the Altay Tank project as a prominent example of successful Turkish-Korean military cooperation.
The defense partnership reflects broader security coordination, with both leaders expressing alignment on counter-terrorism efforts. Erdogan noted that cooperation extends to international forums including the United Nations, G20, and MIKTA, a consultation mechanism for middle powers.
Erdogan invoked the Korean War legacy, describing the conflict as the foundation of enduring bilateral bonds. "As you know, we fought shoulder to shoulder on the same front in the Korean War and became blood brothers," he said, referencing Türkiye's deployment of nearly 23,000 troops to the peninsula 75 years ago.
Looking forward, Erdogan outlined potential areas for joint engagement across multiple regions. He suggested the countries could collaborate on reconstruction efforts in Syria, Gaza, and Ukraine, as well as pursue projects in Iraq, Africa, and Central Asia.
The Turkish president also used the platform to advocate for broader international recognition of Palestinian statehood. "As Türkiye, we expect all friendly, brotherly and allied countries that have not yet taken this step to recognize the State of Palestine," he stated. He reaffirmed Turkish support for diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace, particularly the Istanbul Process.
Lee received a full ceremonial reception upon arrival at the Presidential Complex, including a cavalry escort, performances representing 16 historical Turkish states, and a 21-gun salute. The South Korean president greeted the honor guard by saying "Merhaba asker," using the Turkish phrase for "Hello soldier."
Turkish officials attending the ceremonies included Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar, Trade Minister Omer Bolat, and Presidential Defense Industry Chairman Haluk Gorgun. The formal program included bilateral meetings, the signing ceremony, and an official dinner.
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