South Korea and Turkey deepen nuclear, defence ties at Seoul summit

· Politics · South Korea · Turkey

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan agreed at a summit in Seoul to expand cooperation in nuclear energy and defence, including on one of Turkey's biggest power projects, Lee said. The two leaders agreed to "deepen defence cooperation by expanding joint production and technological cooperation." Lee hosted Erdogan at a state banquet at the Cheong Wa Dae, with both leaders reaffirming a "blood alliance" rooted in Turkey's participation in the Korean War. South Korea's Olympic committee and sports ministry also vowed support for the country's bid to host the 2036 Summer Games, one of seven potential hosts finalised by the IOC.

Why it matters：The summit ties two major defence exporters and energy markets closer, expanding South Korea's role in Turkey's nuclear and arms programmes as Ankara balances between blocs.

Key points

  • Lee and Erdogan agreed to expand nuclear and defence cooperation.
  • They discussed one of Turkey's biggest power projects.
  • Both leaders reaffirmed the "blood alliance" from the Korean War.

Sources (original reporting)

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