Environment ministry discusses energy cooperation with Vietnam

The environment ministry said it held talks with Vietnam to expand bilateral energy cooperation following a summit earlier this year.

Minister Kim Sung-hwan met Le Manh Hung, Vietnam's minister of industry and trade, at the government complex in Seoul to discuss concrete implementation plans for power infrastructure, renewable energy policies and full-cycle nuclear cooperation. The meeting serves as a follow-up to the Korea-Vietnam summit diplomacy held in April.

Vietnam is pursuing the expansion of power generation facilities, transmission and distribution networks, renewable energy adoption and nuclear development to cope with rising electricity demand driven by rapid economic growth and industrialization. The importance of expanding power infrastructure to support stable supply and energy transition has grown.

The two ministers explored joint projects leveraging South Korea's experience in building and operating power grids, alongside efforts to broaden exchanges in renewable energy regulations and industrial sectors. Nuclear discussions included development, operation and workforce training.

"Vietnam is our comprehensive strategic partner and a key energy collaborator in the ASEAN region," Kim said. "We will create tangible outcomes based on the groundwork established through summit diplomacy to contribute to successful energy transitions and stable power supply in both countries."

The ministry added that it would request continued attention and support from the Vietnamese government to facilitate smooth business operations for South Korean companies already active in the country.