President Lee Jae-myung and German Chancellor Merz Discuss Energy and Defense Cooperation

President Lee Jae-myung and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz affirmed key points of energy and defense industry cooperation between the two countries during their first summit. This was the first official meeting between President Lee and Chancellor Merz, and both leaders agreed to further strengthen economic cooperation based on the common ground that South Korea and Germany are manufacturing powerhouses.

The meeting included discussions on energy cooperation, exploring specific collaboration measures in future energy fields such as renewable energy technology development and hydrogen energy utilization. In the defense industry sector, in-depth discussions were held on expanding defense cooperation through advanced technology collaboration and joint research and development. Both leaders acknowledged the importance of cooperation to jointly respond to changes in the security environment and agreed to continue related discussions.

President Lee stated, "Based on the long-standing friendly and cooperative relationship between South Korea and Germany, we have developed mutually beneficial relations in various fields," adding, "I hope that this meeting will further strengthen the relationship between the two countries." Chancellor Merz responded, "South Korea is an important economic partner of Germany," and expressed his hope to "further expand economic cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint responses to global issues."

Both leaders recognized that approximately 850 Korean companies operating in Germany play an important role in strengthening the economic network between the two countries, and they also discussed ways to expand support for these companies. In addition, the leaders exchanged views on ways to promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges and agreed to continuously promote efforts to enhance mutual understanding between the people of both countries.

At the summit, both leaders agreed to promote mutual visits next year to continue efforts to develop bilateral relations. Specific visit dates and agendas will be discussed through diplomatic channels. This summit deepened the strategic partnership between South Korea and Germany and strengthened cooperation on global issues.

President Lee and Chancellor Merz emphasized the importance of economic cooperation between the two countries and discussed concrete ways to further strengthen mutually beneficial economic networks. In particular, both leaders agreed to work together to support the activities of Korean companies in Germany and improve the investment environment. To this end, both governments will actively consider expanding exchanges between companies and providing regulatory relief and investment incentives.

Chancellor Merz mentioned that the technological capabilities and innovative ideas of Korean companies are highly valued in the German market, and he pledged to spare no effort to support more Korean companies entering the German market and developing successful businesses. President Lee expressed his gratitude and emphasized that the Korean government will also actively support German companies' investment in Korea and promote policies to further revitalize cooperation between companies in both countries.

Through this meeting, the leaders of both countries developed their economic cooperation relationship and solidified their partnership for mutual prosperity.