Manila: South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun has committed to enhancing cooperation with the European Union in security, defense, and economic sectors, while also pledging closer collaboration with Britain on global challenges. These commitments were made during separate discussions held in Manila on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-related ministerial meetings, as reported by Seoul's foreign ministry on Friday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Cho engaged in talks with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas and British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband. These discussions focused on implementing agreements from a recent summit, including negotiations on a security information agreement and a digital trade agreement with the EU. Both parties emphasized the need to expedite these initiatives and strengthen ties in strategic areas.

In Cho's meeting with Miliband, he extended congratulations to Britain's new government and Miliband on his new role. Miliband underscored the significance of bilateral relations and expressed a desire for ongoing communication to enhance cooperation. He also welcomed Britain's admission to the ASEAN Regional Forum, emphasizing the potential for expanded cooperation through multilateral platforms.

During the meetings, Cho and his counterparts exchanged views on global issues such as the situations in the Middle East and Ukraine. They agreed to maintain close communication and collaborate on addressing common challenges in the evolving global security landscape.

Cho also held discussions with ministers from Thailand, Brunei, Indonesia, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Vietnam. In talks with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono, both sides agreed to bolster cooperation in defense and emerging industries. With Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, Cho focused on combating transnational crimes and protecting South Korean nationals.

In discussions with Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, there was an agreement to finalize the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement negotiations and enhance efforts against transnational crime. Cho also sought closer cooperation with Brunei on regional energy challenges and agreed with Philippine counterpart Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro to deepen trade and investment ties. Lastly, Cho and Vietnamese Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung committed to sustaining high-level exchanges, building on strong people-to-people connections.