New york: Foreign Minister Cho Hyun has emphasized to U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright that South Korea requires the capability for nuclear fuel reprocessing and enrichment for commercial purposes, as communicated by the foreign ministry on Friday. The discussion took place during a meeting on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Cho articulated that, as a nation operating 26 nuclear reactors, South Korea must secure a full nuclear fuel cycle, which includes enrichment and reprocessing, to maintain energy security. The foreign ministry highlighted Cho's assurance that these activities would be strictly for commercial use, focusing on the stable operation of the country's nuclear power reactors.
In response to Cho's message, Secretary Wright indicated that he would discuss the matter with other U.S. government bodies, considering South Korea's request. This dialogue is part of Seoul's ongoing efforts to seek leniency from the "123 Agreement," a bilateral nuclear energy pact with the United States that currently prohibits South Korea from engaging in spent fuel reprocessing and uranium enrichment.
During their meeting, Cho and Wright reflected on the productive discussions concerning nuclear energy cooperation between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and U.S. President Donald Trump at their summit last month. They agreed to continue consultations to further detail these cooperative efforts.
Additionally, both officials recognized the necessity for close partnerships between companies from South Korea and the United States, aiming to leverage the rising international demand for nuclear power plants, including opportunities within the U.S. market. They concurred on the importance of expanding communication and cooperation to bolster collaboration at the private sector level.