ANKARA — Turkey has resumed its debate over the construction of
nuclear power facilities.
Turkey's parliament has been discussing a project to establish nuclear
energy reactors in up to eight locations. In 2006, the project was vetoed by
then-President
Ahmet Sezer, but recently reviewed by his successor, Abdullah Gul, Middle East Newsline reported.
"Nuclear power is more of an obligation than a choice," Turkish Energy
Minister Hilmi Guler said.
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Turkey has been considering the establishment of eight nuclear energy
reactors amid environmental and budget concerns The project has been
supported by Guler and addressed by the government's Industry and Commerce
Commission on Oct. 9.
A key issue has been the terms of any nuclear reactor tender. Under
Turkish law, the government would be responsible for building the facility
should the private sector reject the tender as unprofitable.
Officials said the commission has reviewed articles of the nuclear
energy law and plans revisions. They said the commission would announce any
changes over the next few weeks.
"Turkey is a powerful country and it must be powerful on the nuclear
energy front as well." Guler said.
