Riyadh: South Korea and Saudi Arabia have solidified their defense collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) focused on enhancing defense research and development. This significant development occurred during a meeting between their respective defense ministers over the weekend, as reported by Seoul's defense ministry on Monday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the MOU was signed by the state-run defense research agencies of both nations, coinciding with discussions held between South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back and his Saudi Arabian counterpart, Khalid bin Salman Al Saud, in Riyadh on Sunday. During the meeting, Minister Ahn emphasized the importance of fostering cooperation in the defense and arms industry sectors in a manner that is mutually beneficial and forward-looking. He also extended an invitation to the Saudi defense minister to visit South Korea within the year.

In response, the Saudi minister expressed gratitude to Minister Ahn for his visit and expressed optimism that South Korea's technology and experience would contribute to strengthening Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities. The ministry highlighted that both parties agreed the newly signed agreement establishes a foundation for a strategic partnership, facilitating cooperation in defense technology research, development, and system innovation.

During his visit, Minister Ahn also attended the biennial World Defense Show, currently underway in Riyadh and running through Thursday. The event features approximately 40 South Korean defense firms showcasing their arms products. This visit marks Minister Ahn's second trip to Saudi Arabia in five months, following his visit in September, during which discussions on bilateral defense and arms industry cooperation took place in light of Saudi Arabia's ambitions to develop its defense industry and modernize its military.