Rome: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Italian President Sergio Mattarella agreed Thursday to elevate their countries' ties into a special strategic partnership, while exploring ways to expand cooperation in semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and other strategic sectors. The two presidents reached the agreement during summit talks at the presidential Quirinal Palace in Rome, the second stop on Lee's first visit to Europe since taking office a year earlier.
According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee announced in a joint press conference that the new partnership reflects the determination to further develop bilateral ties. A South Korea-Italy business roundtable, scheduled for Friday and involving around 30 companies from both countries, will explore growth opportunities in key sectors such as semiconductors, AI, defense manufacturing, aerospace, energy, and biotechnology.
President Lee emphasized the historical relationship, stating that "Just like the trust built over 142 years, the landscape for cooperation is expanding," and promised to "open a new chapter in cooperation toward shared prosperity." The diplomatic ties between South Korea and Italy were first established in 1884.
The presidents also revealed plans to sign memorandums of understanding (MOUs) focused on cooperation for small and medium-sized enterprises and the social solidarity economy. These MOUs are expected to lay the groundwork for deeper collaboration between the two nations.
President Mattarella confirmed that the countries plan to implement joint action plans through 2030 under the newly established special strategic partnership. He highlighted new industrial cooperation in advanced technology sectors and emphasized ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation in trade, defense, science and technology, and cultural exchanges.
The leaders also addressed global challenges, agreeing on the need for close alignment among like-minded countries amid current supply chain crises, including those resulting from conflicts in the Middle East. They plan to jointly promote energy security and supply chain stability, ensuring close communication and cooperation on these issues.
President Lee shared that Mattarella appreciated Seoul's efforts to resume dialogue and cooperation with North Korea, aligning with South Korea's policy of pursuing peaceful coexistence and shared growth with the North. The Italian president pledged to work alongside South Korea in ensuring peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
Both leaders agreed to enhance their international cooperation, particularly at the United Nations, based on their shared commitment to international law and multilateral cooperation.