Seoul, Brussels Forge Closer Economic and Technological Ties
BRUSSELS – South Korean President Lee Jae-myung met with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo in Brussels on October 10th (local time) for their first summit since the current administration took office. The leaders engaged in discussions covering bilateral relations, international affairs, and areas of mutual interest.
Historical Bonds and Future Prospects
During the meeting, President Lee expressed his gratitude to Belgium for its support during the Korean War, noting that Belgian troops were dispatched to the conflict. He highlighted Belgium’s contribution to South Korea’s emergence as a top-tier global economy. Prime Minister De Croo acknowledged the strong historical foundation of the relationship and reaffirmed Belgium’s commitment to contributing to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula as a member of the United Nations Security Council.
Strengthening Economic and Trade Partnerships
Both leaders lauded the robust economic and trade cooperation between South Korea and the European Union, particularly noting the 15th anniversary of the Korea-EU Free Trade Agreement this year. They agreed to bolster investment opportunities for businesses in sectors such as batteries, raw materials, and energy, positioning these as strategic areas for future growth.
A significant outcome of the summit is the anticipated signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) focused on the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and venture businesses. These agreements are expected to foster a supportive environment for cross-border expansion, enabling both nations’ SMEs to utilize each other’s markets as footholds for international growth and achieve mutual prosperity.
Advancing Semiconductor Collaboration
Semiconductor cooperation emerged as a key agenda item. President Lee pointed to the participation of approximately 150 South Korean researchers at IMEC, Europe’s largest non-profit research hub for semiconductors established in Belgium. He expressed hope that expanded research collaboration through IMEC would lead to shared benefits from future advancements in semiconductor technology.
Prime Minister De Croo echoed these sentiments, stating that cooperation with South Korea, a global leader in the semiconductor industry, is highly beneficial for Belgium. He pledged to ensure governmental attention to strengthen bilateral cooperation in this critical sector.
Expanding Educational and Cultural Exchange
Discussions also encompassed plans to enhance educational cooperation. Both sides exchanged views on initiatives such as establishing Korean studies professorships with the Korea Foundation and Ghent University, and the potential for a graduate program at KU Leuven’s Songdo Global Campus. Efforts to establish direct flight routes between South Korea and Belgium were also explored to invigorate bilateral exchanges.
Addressing Regional Security
On regional security, the leaders recognized the interconnectedness of security in Europe and Asia, and shared the understanding that peace on the Korean Peninsula contributes to global stability and prosperity. President Lee outlined his administration’s efforts to re-engage in inter-Korean dialogue and sought Belgium’s continued interest and support for Korean Peninsula policy.
A senior spokesperson for the South Korean delegation stated that the summit has laid the groundwork for mutually beneficial economic cooperation between SMEs, positioning Belgium as a crucial hub for European logistics and the political and economic center of the EU. The spokesperson expressed anticipation that this meeting would serve as a catalyst for future-oriented cooperation, driving the development of both nations.
