Czech PM's envoy to visit Korea to discuss cooperation over nuclear reactor deal

By Kim Dong-young Posted : August 28, 2024, 10:26 Updated : August 28, 2024, 10:26
This photo shows the headquarters of Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) in the southern city of Gyeongju. Courtesy of KHNP
SEOUL, August 28 (AJP) - A special envoy from the Czech Republic is scheduled to visit Korea next week to discuss economic cooperation, signaling potential progress in negotiations for a nuclear power plant contract worth about 24 trillion won ($18 billion), industry sources said Wednesday.

The envoy, representing Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala, will be in Korea from Sept. 3 to 6. The Czech government is reportedly keen to discuss comprehensive industrial cooperation that Korea has proposed in connection with the nuclear deal.

In July, a Korean consortium led by the state-run Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) was selected as the preferred bidder to construct at least two nuclear reactors at the Dukovany power plant.

During the visit, the Czech delegation plans to meet with high-level Korean officials and visit the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT) to explore ways to strengthen industrial and research cooperation between the two countries.

Westinghouse Electric Co. of the United States and Électricité de France (EDF), both of which bid for the deal, have recently filed appeals with the Czech government against the selection of the Korean consortium. Westinghouse has accused KHNP of using its proprietary technology without permission.

Korean officials remain optimistic about resolving these issues before the final contract signing, which is expected by March next year.

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