South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung highlighted the importance of resolving issues with close allies through mutual respect and fundamental principles. He emphasized the need for healthy relations with traditional allies while addressing pending matters sensibly. President Lee expressed commitment to fostering genuine friendships with allies and strengthening diplomacy as a sovereign nation.
Amid diplomatic tensions, particularly regarding a US-listed e-commerce firm and North Korean uranium enrichment site disclosures, President Lee’s remarks underscored the significance of cooperation with allies. The president also outlined plans to enhance the country’s self-reliant defense capabilities and increase defense spending for standalone defense power. South Korea aims to regain wartime operational control of its troops from Washington by 2030.
President Lee highlighted South Korea’s defense capabilities, ranking as the world’s fifth-largest excluding US Forces Korea. He stressed the country’s defense exports, which are the world’s fourth-largest, and the need to raise public awareness about its defense readiness. Additionally, he noted the country’s economic growth acceleration in the first quarter, despite lingering external uncertainties and risks posed by high oil prices, urging sustained efforts for economic stability.
