Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim held a significant summit, resulting in the signing of a bilateral free trade agreement, as announced by the presidential office.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the leaders expressed optimism that the new trade deal would enhance economic collaboration between their nations. Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung stated in a written briefing that both leaders anticipate the agreement will promote increased trade and investment, particularly in strategic sectors like digital technology and artificial intelligence.

During the summit, Prime Minister Anwar acknowledged South Korea as a dependable ally in Malaysia's pursuit of fortified defense capabilities. He welcomed the memorandum of understanding on defense industry cooperation signed between the two countries. Kang emphasized that both leaders recognized the substantial potential for growth in future-oriented sectors such as smart infrastructure and energy transition, agreeing to expand collaboration in these fields.

President Lee also sought Malaysia's support for South Korea's peace initiatives on the Korean Peninsula. Prime Minister Anwar expressed his support for Lee's North Korea policy and assured cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the international community to further these efforts.