Cairo: President Lee Jae Myung is concluding his official visit to Egypt and preparing to depart for Johannesburg, South Africa, to participate in the Group of 20 (G20) summit. During the summit, he is anticipated to address key global issues such as inclusive growth and climate change.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee engaged in summit discussions with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo, focusing on enhanced cooperation in peace efforts and the defense industry. He also delivered an address outlining his initiative to deepen engagement in the Middle East, aiming to promote regional peace, bolster economic partnerships, and expand cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
Lee's itinerary includes a three-day visit to Johannesburg for the G20 summit, which is scheduled from Saturday to Sunday under the theme "Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability." National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac stated that during the summit, Lee will present South Korea's economic and climate policies and pledge to take on a more active international role.
With the G20 summit taking place in Africa for the first time, Lee intends to emphasize Seoul's commitment to expanding cooperation with the continent, demonstrating solidarity, and contributing to its development. Wi added that Lee will hold a series of bilateral and multilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit.
President Lee plans to engage with leaders from MIKTA-a coalition of five middle powers, including South Korea, Mexico, Indonesia, Turkey, and Australia-to discuss ways to enhance multilateral cooperation on global issues. Additionally, Lee is scheduled for consecutive discussions with the leaders of France and Germany to explore bilateral ties.
Wi Sung-lac conveyed that President Lee aims to reinforce Korea's status as a responsible global member and lead efforts to create an environment conducive to restoring the multilateral trade system. Following his three-day visit to South Africa, Lee is set to travel to Turkey on Monday, marking the final stop of his Middle East and Africa tour, which also included a visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).