Matviyenko: Discussed Akkuyu NPP construction with Erdogan, Turkey values this project

ISTANBUL. April 16 (Interfax) - Turkey attaches great significance to the construction of Unit 1 of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, Russian Federation Council Chairperson Valentina Matviyenko said following a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday.

"We discussed the construction of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant. This is certainly a major breakthrough for Turkey. Firstly, Turkey will receive cheap and environmentally friendly electricity for its economy. Secondly, it will obtain new competencies, high technologies, and personnel. They value this project very much," Matviyenko told reporters.

"Despite all the external difficulties, we plan to complete the first phase of construction by the end of the year and continue the second stage," she said.