In the Indo-Pacific region, Korea stands as a significant collaborator, not just on a bilateral basis, but also within the European Union and NATO. This statement comes from Latvia's President.
RIGA — Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs held talks with the Speaker of South Korea's National Assembly, Woo Won-shik, at Riga Castle on May 28. Their discussion focused on political and economic relations, security cooperation, and potential avenues for collaboration.
The presidential aide Martins Dregeris confirmed the meeting where the leaders explored ways to foster stronger political dialogue and economic ties. With the 35th anniversary of Latvia and South Korea's diplomatic relations looming next year, Rinkēvičs highlighted the importance of the Republic of Korea as a significant partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
Expressing satisfaction with the dynamic in bilateral relations, Rinkēvičs acknowledged the progress made in drafting a Social Security Agreement and the implementation of the Working Holiday Program between the two nations. He considered deepening the bilateral dialogue, particularly in preparation for the Social Security Agreement, and the annual Working Holiday Program as substantial strides.
For her part, Saeima speaker Daiga Mierina (Greens/Farmers) also had a meeting with Woo Won-shik. Both officials agreed to pursue closer collaboration in defense and support for Ukraine. In addition to addressing security matters, the discussions included strengthening economic cooperation, with Latvia expressing interest in expanding ties in biomedicine, science, forestry, energy, and the food sector.
The Korean business community, primarily interested in the Baltic region, viewed Latvia as a regional center for opportunities. Enhanced cultural cooperation was also on the agenda.
During his visit to Latvia, Woo Won-shik will meet with Mierina, the Speaker of the Saeima, and Prime Minister Krišjānis Kariņš (New Unity). The Speaker is scheduled to visit Turaida and Rundale Palace, as well as attend a flower-laying ceremony at the Freedom Monument.
As reported, Woo Won-shik's visit to Latvia follows official visits to Estonia and Lithuania. His mission involves discussing methods to strengthen cooperation in the security and economic sectors, vital aspects in fostering a free and open Indo-Pacific region, in line with NATO and EU strategies.
- The leaders, during their discussions, considered strengthening economic cooperation, with Latvia expressing interest in expanding ties in sectors such as biomedicine, science, forestry, energy, and the food sector.
- In addition to addressing security matters, the bilateral talks between officials also focused on fostering closer collaboration in defense, particularly in support of Ukraine.
- With the Korean business community viewing Latvia as a regional center for opportunities, enhanced cultural cooperation was also on the agenda during Woo Won-shik's visit to the country.
