Seoul: South Korea and France on Friday committed to deepening their collaboration in important scientific fields, including artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing, as part of ongoing efforts to cement their partnership in advanced technology research, the science ministry announced.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Science Minister Bae Kyung-hoon and his French counterpart, Philippe Baptiste, engaged in discussions during a joint committee meeting on science and technology in Seoul. This meeting coincided with French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to South Korea, marking his first official trip to the country since assuming office in 2017. Macron's visit also commemorates the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and France.

During the joint committee meeting, Seoul and Paris reiterated their roles as "key partners" in advanced strategic technologies, specifically focusing on AI and quantum computing. In support of this collaboration, South Korea's leading institutions, including the Institute for Basic Science and the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), signed a memorandum of understanding with France's National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) to encourage bilateral exchanges.

The two nations also discussed strategies to advance the AI industry. South Korea's AI Safety Institute proposed establishing a communication channel with France's National Institute for Research in Digital Science and Technology to nurture this sector.

Bae Kyung-hoon highlighted the significance of the joint committee meeting, stating that it has provided an opportunity to further enhance bilateral cooperation in science and technology. He emphasized South Korea's commitment to working closely with France in the strategic science and technology domain, particularly focusing on AI and quantum computing, as part of efforts to lead in the global competition.