Istanbul: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that his country is on its way to relying on the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant to provide electricity for the first time, within a short period of time.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, in a speech at the Energy Efficiency Forum in Istanbul, Erdogan revealed that additional nuclear energy projects are under consideration, with discussions ongoing following his recent visits to the United States and China. He highlighted that the scope of nuclear energy in Turkey will extend beyond electricity generation to include sectors like medicine, agriculture, research, and industrial heat.

Erdogan outlined the government’s strategy to enhance energy security over the next two to three decades, emphasizing energy efficiency and preventing waste. He noted that Turkey imported $65 billion worth of energy last year, underscoring the necessity of using available resources efficiently.

The President pointed out Turkey’s ambition to advance in nuclear energy, mentioning that there are 416 active reactors in 31 countries worldwide. He stated that these reactors produce around 9% of global electricity, and there are 63 nuclear reactors under construction in 15 countries, including Turkey.

Discussing economic goals, Erdogan stated that Turkey aims to raise its annual exports to $300 billion and tourism revenues to $70 billion. He also pledged ongoing efforts for Turkey to achieve complete independence in the energy sector.

Erdogan provided insights into Turkey’s oil consumption, noting that the country uses approximately one million barrels daily, with 160,000 secured from domestic resources. He mentioned Turkey’s current ranking as fifth globally with four active drilling vessels and two seismic research vessels, aiming to move to fourth place with additional vessels.

The Turkish government plans to elevate the economy to $1.9 trillion and increase per capita income to $21,000 by 2028. Erdogan stressed the strategic importance of energy and its supply security, condemning the imperialist mindset that prioritizes oil over human welfare and its historical consequences.

He concluded with a reflection on global disparities, highlighting the contrast between resource-rich regions suffering from poverty and distant countries enjoying prosperity.