Vladimir Putin commented on Turkey’s nuclear potential. Photo: Mikhail Klimentyev / Press Service of the President of the Russian Federation / TASS
In the first reactor of the first Turkish Akkuyu nuclear power plant loaded with nuclear fuel. This is not the beginning of energy production, but the country has already received the formal status of a nuclear peaceful power. Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan took part in the ceremony via video link.
The first to speak was IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi. He said that the organization supports the project, “Russian partners” are preparing employees for the facility, the atom “should serve peace and goodness.”
There were no provocative slogans.
– It is symbolic that Turkey is joining the club of industrially and technologically developed states that already have their own nuclear industry, and it is precisely in 2023, when Turkey celebrates the 100th anniversary of the founding of the republic. Now it is the largest nuclear construction in the world. It employs more than 20,000 people daily. Two-thirds of which are Turkish citizens, Vladimir Putin said in his turn.
The Russian leader paid much attention to the benefits of Turkey from cooperation with us:
– After Akkuyu works at full capacity, we will supply less gas. Türkiye will enjoy the benefits of nuclear power.
– 6.5 billion dollars – the overall effect (for the Turkish economy – Ed.) from the localization of production, – the president added.
Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan took part in the ceremony via video link.
Photo: REUTERS
The head of state mentioned that he had spoken with Erdogan before the official ceremony. Politicians agreed to increase the number of flights to Turkey to maintain the tourist flow. The project to create a gas hub for the export of raw materials to Europe is still relevant.
– An initiative has been developed to send free flour from Russian grain to needy countries. Flour will be created by the Turkish flour-grinding industry, – said Vladimir Vladimirovich.
Erdogan’s speech turned out to be shorter than that of our president. He recalled that Türkiye entered the club of countries with peaceful nuclear power. 300 people received higher education in our universities in nuclear specialties.
And most importantly, during the winter earthquake in the south-east of the country, not a single nuclear power plant was damaged, which indicates its reliability.
– I want to say it straight: you know how to set ambitious goals and are confidently moving towards their implementation, – Putin made a compliment to Erdogan at the end.
In response, he assured that next time he hopes to see in person.
