Seoul: South Korea and France signed multiple agreements on Tuesday aimed at enhancing their bilateral cooperation in national defense, the defense industry, and other strategic areas, including military information protection. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung announced these developments during a joint press event with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysee Palace, marking a significant outcome of their summit meeting.
According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee embarked on a two-day state visit to Paris to fortify the partnership between the two nations, coinciding with the 140th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. President Lee emphasized the importance of these agreements, stating, "In order to jointly respond to uncertainties facing the international order, (we) agreed to make tangible progress in cooperation on defense and security."
The agreements include an upgrade to a military secret information protection pact initially established during a summit in Seoul in April. This enhancement aims to improve the framework for information sharing between the two countries. Additionally, both nations agreed to expedite the signing of a separate agreement on mutual military logistics support, intended to bolster the stability and effectiveness of their military cooperation.
President Lee highlighted the growing technological collaboration between South Korean companies and French defense firms, including Airbus. He noted that both sides are committed to pursuing mutually beneficial projects that leverage France's technological expertise and South Korea's manufacturing capabilities.
On the economic front, South Korea and France have set a goal to increase their annual bilateral trade volume to $20 billion by 2030 by strengthening economic and industrial cooperation. President Lee pledged to maintain close communication with President Macron to facilitate a more predictable business environment and create new market opportunities for companies from both countries.
The two leaders also agreed to expand collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technology, and nuclear energy. They plan to pursue joint research and development projects in these fields and develop next-generation nuclear reactors while diversifying supply chains. A high-level dialogue on cooperation in civil nuclear energy will be launched as part of these efforts.
In a joint commitment to international peace, South Korea and France will continue their efforts to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. President Macron expressed his support for South Korea's policy on the Korean Peninsula, further solidifying the alliance between the two nations.
Reflecting on the longstanding friendship between South Korea and France, President Lee concluded, "Based on the deep friendship and trust built over the past 140 years, we agreed to jointly open a new (door for the) next 140 years."
President Lee's visit to Paris followed a two-day trip to Nice, where he and President Macron co-hosted a meeting on the future of the film industry. During his state visit, President Lee also paid respects to France's fallen heroes at the Arc de Triomphe, attended a business roundtable with prominent business leaders, and is scheduled to participate in a dinner banquet hosted by President Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron.
Source: Yonhap News Agency