Vatican city: President Lee Jae Myung met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Monday, where he is presumed to have sought the Holy See's support for his administration's efforts to build peace on the Korean Peninsula. This significant meeting marks a pivotal moment in Lee's diplomatic endeavors as he embarks on his first European tour since taking office in June last year.

According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee's European tour included summits with leaders of Belgium, the European Union, and Italy. His discussions with Pope Leo XIV are believed to have centered around requesting the Vatican's backing for initiatives aimed at easing tensions and promoting peace on the Korean Peninsula. Lee also voiced his support for fostering global peace and solidarity, aligning with the Vatican's own mission.

In addition to his meeting with the pope, President Lee was scheduled to meet with Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's secretary of state, later in the day. This meeting underscores the importance of diplomatic ties and collaboration in addressing global and regional challenges, particularly in fostering peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.