Seoul: President Yoon Suk Yeol and Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics convened for a summit on Thursday to discuss strengthening cooperation in the bio and defense industries while addressing mutual security concerns, as stated by Yoon's office.According to Yonhap News Agency, the two leaders agreed to broaden their collaboration in the bio and pharmaceutical sectors. President Rinkevics emphasized Latvia's role as a strategic entry point for South Korean companies looking to penetrate the European market. Latvia hosts significant pharmaceutical companies, including Pharmidea and OlainFarm.President Yoon expressed South Korea's potential as a "reliable partner" in enhancing Latvia's defense capabilities. President Rinkevics showed interest in joint efforts in air defense systems and drone technologies, as per the official statement.The discussions also covered shared concerns regarding the rising threats from disinformation and cyberattacks, particularly those leveraging artificial intelligence. The lea ders committed to closer cooperation through the NATO Strategic Communications Center of Excellence, based in Latvia.Both presidents expressed "strong concerns" about North Korea's troop deployment to Russia, describing it as "a threat to global security beyond the Korean Peninsula and Europe." They agreed to collaborate on sending a decisive message against this development.President Rinkevics further condemned North Korea's nuclear missile program and provocations, offering support for President Yoon's policy on North Korea, the statement noted.
- October 12, 2026
