Seoul: Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back on Monday conducted a series of bilateral discussions with high-ranking officials from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Romania, and Saudi Arabia to explore avenues for enhanced defense and arms industry collaboration, as reported by his office.

According to Yonhap News Agency, in the meeting with Radmila Shekerinska, NATO's deputy secretary general, Ahn emphasized the significance of their cooperative efforts and sought support for initiatives aimed at achieving peace on the Korean Peninsula. The South Korean defense ministry highlighted the importance of this international cooperation.

In a separate meeting with Radu-Dinel Miruta, Romania's minister of economy, entrepreneurship, and tourism, Ahn requested backing for South Korean defense companies aspiring to contribute to Romania's military modernization efforts. This discussion signifies South Korea's strategic interest in extending its defense industry footprint in Europe.

Additionally, Ahn engaged in talks with Gen. Fayyadh bin Hamed Al Ruwaili, the chief of the general staff of the Saudi armed forces. Their discussions focused on expanding cooperation across various sectors, including construction, energy, and the defense and arms industry. Ahn expressed concerns over North Korea's growing nuclear and missile capabilities, which he identified as a threat to global security. Al Ruwaili conveyed support for Seoul's policy regarding North Korea, reflecting mutual understanding between the nations.

These meetings were held on the sidelines of the Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition, South Korea's largest biennial aerospace and defense trade show, which is underway through Friday. The exhibition serves as a significant platform for international collaboration in the defense sector.