Hanoi:<Text>

President Lee Jae Myung emphasized the necessity of enhancing cooperation with Vietnam to establish resilient supply chains for essential raw materials, including rare earths and urea solution, amidst global economic uncertainties. Lee highlighted this during a business forum in Hanoi, attended by business leaders from both South Korea and Vietnam, as part of his state visit alongside a significant business delegation.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee underscored the vital nature of economic collaboration between South Korea and Vietnam, particularly in the current climate of heightened global economic uncertainty. He pointed out that fortifying supply chains within the energy sector, specifically focusing on rare earths and urea solution, is crucial due to their importance in advanced industries. Rare earths are indispensable for the production of semiconductors, batteries, and electronics, while urea solution plays a critical role in reducing emissions in di esel vehicles.

Lee further emphasized the necessity of expanding Vietnam's energy infrastructure to bolster its manufacturing capabilities. He urged Korean companies to increase their cooperation in this area, suggesting the establishment of efficient power distribution networks, which would include liquefied natural gas and nuclear power plants to ensure a stable industrial environment.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung aligned with Lee's views, committing to fostering tangible cooperation between businesses from both nations. Hung encouraged Korean firms to invest more in high-value sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and clean energy while also focusing on technology transfer to enhance Vietnam's industrial ecosystem.

The forum was attended by prominent figures from South Korea's leading conglomerates, including Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong, SK Group Executive Chair Chey Tae-won, LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo, and Lotte Group Chairman Shin Dong-bin.