Seoul: South Korea and the Czech Republic engaged in a high-level supply chain and energy dialogue in Seoul, focusing on enhancing cooperation in areas such as trade, eco-friendly energy, and nuclear power plants, as announced by South Korea's industry ministry. Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun and Czech counterpart Lukas Vlcek participated in the meeting, which marked the second bilateral supply chain and energy dialogue (SCED) between the two nations.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the discussions centered on advancing trade, supply chain management, and collaboration in advanced industries, carbon-free energy, and nuclear power. The negotiations for a South Korean consortium to construct two nuclear plants in the Czech Republic's Dukovany region were said to be progressing well. The Czech Republic is currently finalizing contract terms with the consortium, led by Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power, aiming to conclude the agreement for the project, valued at approximately 24 trillion won (US$16.6 billion), by March.

Further discussions between Ahn and Vlcek included potential joint efforts in research and development projects, as well as talent development in the nuclear energy sector. The ministers also explored establishing cooperation centers to collaborate on battery technology, future mobility, and robotics.

Additionally, a memorandum of understanding was signed to facilitate cooperation in the semiconductor industry, with both countries agreeing to collaborate on developing clean hydrogen energy technologies. On the sidelines of the meeting, a business conference was jointly hosted to encourage bilateral investment.

"This year marks the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries and the 10th anniversary of striking a strategic partnership," Ahn highlighted. He expressed optimism about finalizing the nuclear power plant project deal in Dukovany as a means to advance bilateral ties further.