The real nuclear threat is not Turkey's planned nuclear plants, but the ones in neighboring countries, the country's Forestry and Water Affairs Minister, Veysel Eroglu said on Friday.
'The nuclear activities that Turkey carries out do not pose risks, but the real danger comes from some nuclear facilities in some neighboring countries,' Eroglu said, amid discussions over the location of a third nuclear plant.
Armenia's Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant, located 16 km away from Turkish border, came under criticism by Turkish officials as Armenia decided to extend Metsamor's lifespan until 2026, which was built in 1970.
Energy Minister, Ali Rıza Alaboyun had announced on Wednesday that Igneada district on northwestern Turkey near Bulgarian border could be the location for the third nuclear power plant as the talks with companies are ongoing.
'We are dependent on outside sources in energy. Turkey has already lost a lot of time for nuclear energy and fell behind,' Eroglu added.
The minister reminded that France generates 80 percent of its energy demand by nuclear power.
By Furkan Naci Top
Anadolu Agency
furkan.top@aa.com.tr