UAE Enhances Ties with South Korea Amid Strategic Talks

Today, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, welcomed His Excellency Lee Jae-myung, the President of the Republic of Korea, for official talks aimed at bolstering cooperation and furthering the Special Strategic Partnership between the two nations. This meeting took place at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi during President Lee’s state visit.

Sheikh Mohamed welcomed President Lee, expressing optimism that their discussions would strengthen the UAE-Korea partnership and align with their mutual goals for sustainable growth. Key topics included expanding cooperation in critical sectors such as economy, trade, investment, and renewable energy.

The two leaders explored emerging avenues in technology, artificial intelligence, sustainability, education, and culture, aiming to enhance collaboration in ways that resonate with their respective development priorities. They also reviewed regional and international issues, underscoring the importance of fostering peace and stability, especially within the Middle East.

Sheikh Mohamed emphasized the strategic relationship that the UAE and Korea have built upon trust and mutual respect, noting their shared vision for economic prosperity. He highlighted the upcoming Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to be signed in 2024 as a significant step towards enhanced trade and investment.

Acknowledging Korea as one of the UAE’s primary trading partners, he praised the remarkable strides made in their bilateral relations. The focus remains on building partnerships centered around shared visions for sustainable development.

President Lee lauded the strong relations between the two countries and acknowledged the numerous opportunities available in technology, AI, energy, and culture. He expressed gratitude for the warm reception received in the UAE and signed the VIP guestbook, describing the partnership as a model for mutual progress.

To commemorate this visit, Sheikh Mohamed hosted a luncheon for President Lee and his entourage. Additionally, both leaders met with a group of students, engineers, and nuclear energy specialists engaged in UAE development projects, alongside an economic delegation from both sides.

Several senior officials from the UAE joined the talks, including Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President; H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi; and Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister. The Korean delegation comprised ministers and senior officials accompanying President Lee.

Both parties reiterated their dedication to further strengthening the UAE-Korea partnership based on shared interests, economic growth, and cultural collaboration, signaling ongoing advancements in their strategic, economic, and cultural ties for the future.