Argentina hopes to strengthen nuclear cooperation with Korea

• Published date: 22 February 2023
• Publication title: The Korea Times

Argentina's Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Daniel Filmus visited Korea last week for four days, meeting with a Korean minister and top scientists to discuss cooperation in the field of science with a focus on nuclear energy and lithium.

This visit is part of ongoing efforts to implement a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the two countries in July 2022, which centers on cooperation in information and communication technology.

Filmus described his meeting with Korea's Science and ICT Minister Lee Jong-ho as fruitful because the MOU is a significant milestone.

"Because it (MOU) allows us to deepen cooperation in science and technology with Korea on issues that both countries have defined as strategic, such as mining, agro-industry, green hydrogen production, climate issues, aerospace, biotechnology and nanotechnology," Filmus said during an interview with The Korea Times at a hotel in Seoul, Friday.

"Our bilateral relationship has grown in terms of economics, politics, and diplomacy. I believe my visit has the potential to further strengthen the relationship in the field of science."

Filmus said Argentina recognizes Korea's rapid economic growth as well as advancements in quality of life through science and technology.

"President of Argentina Alberto Fernandez places a strong emphasis on science and technology and the country recently passed legislation to increase government investment in science by four times," he explained.

"Korea and Argentina have unique strengths in the field of science and technology and by working together, the two countries can complement each other and drive progress in these areas. While Korea excels in certain areas of development and investment, Argentina has its own areas of expertise and technology to offer."

Daniel Filmus, Argentina's minister of science, technology and innovation, speaks during a meeting with his Korean counterpart, Lee Jong-ho, at the Seoul Central Post Office, Friday. Courtesy of Ministry of Science and ICT

During his visit, the minister traveled to Daejeon, the home of Korea's science and innovation hub, and toured the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy, and the Korea Aerospace Research Institute.

Korea and Argentina have similar experiences with nuclear energy and thus have the potential for increased collaboration in this field. Argentina is recognized for its expertise in the peaceful use of nuclear energy in Latin America and there is an...