S. Korea, Vietnam agree to advance energy cooperation including nuclear power

President Lee Jae Myung and Vietnam's top leader To Lam agreed to advance cooperation in energy and infrastructure during summit talks, including Vietnam's possible revival of its nuclear power program, Seoul's top security official said Thursday.

In Wednesday's talks, Lam, who serves as general secretary of the Communist Party, "welcomed" Korean companies' participation in Vietnam's energy transition, including the potential construction of a nuclear power plant, National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac told reporters.

Vietnam had previously shelved its plan in 2016 to build its first nuclear power plant in the southeastern province of Ninh Thuan due to financing constraints, but is now considering adding nuclear power to its energy grid to meet growing electricity demand.

Asked whether the summit addressed the Ninh Thuan project, Wi said, "Discussions remain at an early stage, focusing on the feasibility and related risks."

On the sidelines of the summit, the state-run Korea Electric Power Corporation and Vietnam National Industry-Energy Group signed two memorandums of understanding on joint feasibility studies and financing for potential nuclear power development projects.

Critical mineral supply chains were also identified as an area of cooperation, Wi said, noting Seoul and Hanoi will broaden the scope of cooperation by establishing a technology cooperation center for critical mineral supply chains.

Lee and Lam also exchanged views on regional security and global issues, including the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, according to the official.

"The two leaders agreed to bolster joint efforts for peace and prosperity in the international community," Wi said. "They also shared the understanding that peaceful coexistence on the Korean Peninsula serves the interests of the international community."