South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Italian President Sergio Mattarella have agreed to upgrade their countries’ relationship to a special strategic partnership. This decision came during their meeting at the presidential Quirinal Palace in Rome. The two leaders discussed enhancing cooperation in key sectors such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI).
President Lee highlighted the importance of this partnership and mentioned plans for a South Korea-Italy business roundtable involving companies from both nations. Areas of potential collaboration identified include semiconductors, AI, defense manufacturing, aerospace, energy, and biotechnology. The aim is to deepen ties for mutual prosperity.
Both countries, which established diplomatic relations in 1884, are set to sign memorandums of understanding (MOUs) on cooperation for small and medium-sized enterprises and social solidarity economy. President Mattarella emphasized the implementation of joint action plans until 2030 under the newly formed special strategic partnership. Industrial cooperation, especially in advanced technology, is already underway.
President Lee and President Mattarella also discussed the need for alignment among like-minded countries to address supply chain disruptions. They plan to collaborate on promoting energy security and supply chain stability while closely communicating on related issues. The Italian president commended South Korea’s efforts to engage in dialogue and cooperation with North Korea for peaceful coexistence and shared growth.
The leaders expressed their commitment to enhancing cooperation on the international stage, including at the United Nations, based on shared values of international law and multilateralism. They also discussed working together to ensure peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
