Seoul: President Lee Jae-myung of South Korea has announced that the recent nuclear plant export agreement with the Czech Republic has set the stage for further expanding economic cooperation between the two nations. This announcement was made during a phone call with Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the conversation marked the first official dialogue between Lee and Fiala. They both expressed enthusiasm over the signing of the final contract for the nuclear power plant construction project, viewing it as a pivotal step towards strengthening economic relations. Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung noted that the leaders are dedicated to extending their collaboration beyond nuclear energy to encompass high-tech industries, infrastructure, and energy, aiming for a comprehensive partnership across various sectors.
The final contract for the construction of two nuclear power plant units at the Dukovany plant in the Czech Republic was signed on June 4 by the state-run Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Co. This followed the removal of a court injunction that had previously obstructed the deal. Valued at 26 trillion won (US$18.6 billion), this deal represents South Korea's first overseas nuclear power plant contract since 2009, when it secured a project in the United Arab Emirates.
During the 20-minute conversation, President Lee sought the Czech government's support for approximately 100 Korean businesses operating in the country and extended an invitation for Prime Minister Fiala to visit South Korea. In response, Fiala expressed gratitude and congratulated Lee on his election victory and his adept management of South Korea's political challenges.
Fiala communicated on X, formerly known as Twitter, that their discussion primarily revolved around economic cooperation, particularly in relation to the completion of the Dukovany nuclear power plant. He emphasized that nuclear collaboration has become a key element of their bilateral relations and will benefit industries in both countries. Additionally, they discussed the enhancement of economic ties and the security situation in Europe and the Korean Peninsula.
This conversation marks President Lee's fourth phone call with a foreign leader since assuming office last week, following discussions with leaders from the United States, Japan, and China. This year also commemorates the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and the Czech Republic and the 10th anniversary of their strategic partnership.