President Lee Jae-myung and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held their first phone conversation on July 17, agreeing to deepen their countries’ strategic partnership. The two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in key areas, including trade, investment, defense, nuclear energy, and green technology, according to a written briefing by presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung.
During the call, President Erdoğan congratulated Lee on his election and praised South Korea’s restored democracy and the resilience of its people. He also expressed Türkiye’s strong interest in enhancing ties with South Korea, describing the nation as a long-standing ally.
President Lee highlighted the strong historical bond between South Korea and Türkiye, recalling their shared past during the Korean War. He expressed appreciation for how the two nations have continued to strengthen ties based on this “blood alliance.” Both leaders agreed to enhance their strategic partnership through practical and long-term cooperation.
Turkish President Erdoğan, during the call, congratulated President Lee on his recent election victory and praised the restoration of democracy in South Korea. He emphasized his country’s desire to deepen ties with Seoul and noted the resilience and determination shown by the Korean people.
According to spokesperson Kang Yu-jung, the two leaders assessed the progress in economic relations and agreed to expand cooperation in sectors like defense, nuclear energy, and green technology. They also mentioned the importance of continued investment and trade between the two countries, which have seen steady growth in recent years.
President Erdoğan also expressed interest in exploring future cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence and invited President Lee to visit Türkiye. He stressed the value of joint efforts in advancing technological and defense capabilities, reflecting both countries’ interest in high-tech collaboration.
Meanwhile, President Lee’s administration has been actively engaging European partners as well. A South Korean delegation led by former Minister of Justice Kang Kumsil visited Paris from July 16 to 17 to meet with French officials and business leaders. The meetings aimed to introduce the new government’s foreign policy and attract support from European stakeholders.
Prior to that, on July 15, a special envoy delegation led by former Environment Minister Yoon Yeo-joon held talks in Brussels with top European Union figures, including European Council President Antonio Costa. These diplomatic efforts reflect the Lee administration’s broader push to strengthen South Korea’s global partnerships and expand its influence in international affairs.
