Turkish MP demands closure of Metsamor nuclear power plant as posing big threat to region

The Metsamor nuclear power plant (NPP) poses a great threat to Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran and Armenia itself, Canturk Alagöz, member of the ruling Turkish Justice and Development Party, told Report.

According to him, the recent earthquake in the Turkish province of Agri increased the anxiety of the residents of the region. Most of all, people are afraid and worried about the Metsamor nuclear power plant located in Armenia.

The lawmaker noted that this station, located 30 km from Igdir, was built according to old technologies and, above all, poses a great threat to Türkiye, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Iran.

He noted that they are concerned about the destruction of the nuclear power plant or possible leaks from the station: "The nuclear power plant was supposed to be closed in 2005, but it has been operating under the pretext of repairs for 18 years. I will bring this issue of concern to us to the attention of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the Turkish Grand National Assembly and the world community, and will try to achieve the closure of the plant. The Armenian people are also in danger. They are demanding the closure of the plant. However, the plant, which provides 27% of Armenia's electricity needs, does not stop its work, despite all efforts."

According to the MP, an atmosphere of hatred and hostility has been reigning in Armenia for many years: "The killings of Azerbaijanis in Karabakh are proof of this. Twenty percent of Azerbaijani lands were under Armenian occupation for 30 years. These lands were returned as a result of a 44-day war. Armenians should stop their hostility in order to establish peace and security in the region.If the Metsamor nuclear power plant is destroyed, the country called Armenia will cease to exist. Now much is said about the increase in the number of cancer patients in our region.The Metsamor nuclear power plant is cited as one of the main Armenia is among the first countries to be threatened by the plant."