Rome: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung arrived in Italy on Wednesday, marking the second stop of his 10-day European tour, aimed at strengthening diplomatic relations. This visit is President Lee's first to the region since assuming office in June last year, and it underscores his commitment to expanding South Korea's diplomatic presence in Europe.

According to Yonhap News Agency, as President Lee's aircraft entered Italian airspace, it was escorted by two Italian fighter jets, symbolizing a gesture of respect from the host nation. During his stay in Italy, President Lee is scheduled to engage in high-level discussions with the country's top leaders. On Thursday, he will participate in an official welcome ceremony hosted by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, followed by a summit between the two leaders. They are expected to issue a joint press statement post-summit.

Furthermore, President Lee is set to meet Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni the next day, continuing his series of diplomatic engagements. On Sunday, he plans to attend Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, and on the following day, he will have an audience with Pope Leo XIV. The visit to Italy will conclude on Tuesday, after which President Lee will travel to Evian, France, to participate in the Group of Seven (G7) summit, where South Korea has been invited as a partner nation.