Ankara: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store held talks on Wednesday to explore ways to enhance collaboration between their nations in the fields of security and technology. The discussions took place alongside the North Atlantic Treaty Organization summit, where President Lee participated as a leader of one of the alliance's partner countries.

According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee emphasized the significance of cooperation and exchanges between South Korea and Norway amidst the growing instability in the global security landscape. He highlighted that the two countries are transforming their relationship into one that is mutually beneficial in economic, industrial, cultural, and defense areas.

During the talks, President Lee expressed his desire to delve into how the two nations can further deepen their relations. Prime Minister Store acknowledged the progress made in bilateral ties since last year, citing key decisions in the defense industry that have set the stage for a strategic partnership. Specifically, he referenced South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace Co.'s agreement to supply Norway with Chunmoo artillery systems and guided missiles.

Prime Minister Store also noted the advancements in cooperation on security, trade, and technology, expressing his hope to explore further opportunities to deepen these ties. President Lee reiterated the potential for collaboration in advanced defense technologies and the broader defense industry, stressing Norway's trust in South Korean weapons systems, as relayed by presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung.

Furthermore, President Lee identified renewable energy, shipbuilding, and maritime affairs as sectors where tangible cooperation could be achieved. He also urged the Norwegian government to assist a South Korean delegation visiting Norway to secure additional supplies of Norwegian mackerel, a significant food source in South Korea.

Kang reported that Prime Minister Store shared aspirations for stronger cooperation in the maritime and energy sectors, aiming to elevate bilateral ties by strengthening collaboration in key areas. The two leaders agreed to exchange visits at mutually convenient times and pledged to maintain close communication to ensure peace and stability in the international community.