President Moon Jae-in on April 6 sent a congratulatory letter to the de facto leader of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on the launch of the UAE's first nuclear power plant in Barakah (pictured). (Korean Electric Power Corp.)

By Kim Minji 

President Moon Jae-in on April 6 sent a congratulatory letter to the de facto ruler of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, over the launch of the UAE's first nuclear power plant and the Mideast nation's 50th birthday.

Cheong Wa Dae Spokesperson Kang Min-seok on April 7 told a news briefing that the president in the letter called the Barakah plant "an icon of the UAE's innovation" and "a symbol of friendship between both countries."

The chief executive said he also hopes for the success of the remaining processes to launch commercial operations of the other three reactors at the site.

The Barakah plant is Korea's first export of a nuclear power plant, and aside from the first reactor that launched operations, three others are being built at the site.

The president also lauded the UAE's development through continuous innovation and challenges and the successful entry of the country's Amal spacecraft into orbit around Mars in February.

He also expressed hope that the 2020 Dubai Expo, which is slated to open in October due to postponement because of the COVID-19 pandemic, offers a good stage for the UAE to show its "bright future."

Turning to the 50th anniversary of the UAE's foundation this year, President Moon said he hopes that the country prospers over the next half century with Korea as a companion.

kimmj7725@korea.kr