South Korea and Turkey advanced their strategic cooperation on Monday during a high-level summit in Ankara. The meeting focused on expanding bilateral ties in defense, nuclear power, energy, and advanced industries. The strategic cooperation goal shaped the tone of the summit and highlighted shared long-term priorities.
President Lee Jae Myung met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the presidential complex for formal talks. Both leaders announced a new joint statement outlining how the two countries will deepen their partnership. Lee said the agreement provides direction and helps both governments move projects forward more efficiently.
Both leaders agreed to restart the joint economic committee for the first time in ten years. The committee will monitor progress, support industry exchanges, and help resolve barriers in trade and investment. Officials described the committee as essential for stable and predictable cooperation.
During the summit, the two governments signed several MOUs that support work in nuclear energy, biotechnology, defense production, and infrastructure. South Korean firms will now move into a detailed evaluation stage for Turkey’s Sinop Nuclear Power Plant project. Erdogan described the plan as a major step and welcomed South Korea’s technical experience.
Lee said South Korean nuclear developers can help improve safety and energy stability in Turkey. He added that nuclear power will play a meaningful role as both countries work toward long-term energy security.
The leaders also discussed cooperation in defense manufacturing. They highlighted the joint work on the Altay main battle tank as an example of growing defense capability. Both sides expressed interest in expanding joint production, personnel training, and technology development.
South Korean companies also play a growing role in Turkish infrastructure and energy. Lee noted recent collaboration involving wind energy development, road construction, and medical technology. He said these projects show how strategic cooperation benefits both economies.
Beyond business, both nations agreed to expand cultural exchanges and humanitarian support. They discussed refugee assistance programs and cooperation in public health, including expanded training and medical support.
Earlier in the day, Lee visited the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. He wrote that both countries share a meaningful historical connection and should continue building a future based on cooperation and mutual respect.
Lee is scheduled to depart Ankara on Tuesday and return to Seoul the following day. Both governments expect follow-up working meetings soon to maintain momentum and ensure that strategic cooperation continues producing measurable outcomes.
