Seoul: Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back on Monday conducted a series of bilateral discussions with high-ranking officials from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Romania, and Saudi Arabia to explore avenues for expanding cooperation in defense and the arms industry, as announced by his office.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Ahn met with Radmila Shekerinska, NATO's deputy secretary general, emphasizing the significance of their collaboration and seeking support for peace efforts on the Korean Peninsula. The defense ministry highlighted Ahn's focus on building strong ties with NATO to address regional security challenges.
In discussions with Gen. Fayyadh bin Hamed Al Ruwaili, chief of the general staff of the Saudi armed forces, Ahn explored opportunities to enhance cooperation in the construction and energy sectors, alongside the defense and arms industry. Ahn also addressed concerns about North Korea's nuclear and missile developments, receiving backing from Al Ruwaili for Seoul's policies regarding North Korea.
Ahn's talks with Saleh bin Abdulrahman Al-Harbi, chief of staff of the Saudi Arabian National Guard, centered around South Korea's potential role as a pivotal partner in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative. These discussions underscored South Korea's commitment to fostering strategic partnerships with Saudi Arabia.
Additionally, Ahn held discussions with Maj. Gen. Rashed Mohammed A. Al Shamsi, commander of the United Arab Emirates Air Force and Air Defence, focusing on expanding bilateral cooperation in space exploration and artificial intelligence. This meeting highlighted the growing importance of technological collaboration between the two nations.
The defense minister also engaged with Radu-Dinel Miruta, Romania's minister of economy, entrepreneurship, and tourism, seeking support for South Korean defense companies aiming to participate in Romania's military modernization projects. This move reflects South Korea's intention to strengthen its presence in the European defense market.
These strategic talks were conducted on the sidelines of the Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition, the largest biennial aerospace and defense trade show in South Korea, continuing through Friday.