On Monday, President Lee Jae Myung and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk agreed to elevate the relationship between their countries to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This move aims to broaden cooperation beyond defense industries to encompass economic, technological, and cultural sectors.
During a joint statement at the expanded Korea-Poland talks held at the Blue House, President Lee emphasized that its defense cooperation extends far beyond mere arms sales. By incorporating joint production, technology transfer, and training within Poland, it’s making a significant contribution to the development of Poland’s defense ecosystem.
He added that he finds it deeply meaningful that it’s elevating the relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership during this visit to Korea. By leveraging South Korea’s industrial competitiveness and Poland’s foundational scientific and technological capabilities, it can open new horizons for the cooperation.
President Lee also proposed strengthening cultural and educational cooperation and expanding people-to-people exchanges to deepen ties between the two nations.
Prime Minister Tusk reaffirmed the strategic importance of defense cooperation, stating that for Poland, South Korea is our second most important ally after the U.S. He added that the key word for the relationship is trust, and it will actively support various sectors including security, agriculture, and advanced technology.
Tusk highlighted that the core of their cooperation lies in the words comprehensive and strategic, emphasizing the importance of both countries jointly taking responsibility and contributing to global peace and international order.
The talks also addressed economic cooperation issues. Tusk mentioned the export of Polish beef to Korea, noting that President Lee promised to resolve this issue immediately. He expressed gratitude for the president’s proactive approach, calling it a source of hope and positivity for Polish citizens.
The two leaders also revealed a personal rapport. Tusk remarked that although this is the first official meeting, it feels like they’ve known each other for a long time. It has lived similar lives and share similar values, which allows them to understand each other well.
He continued that he also have experience working as a laborer at a young age, and they both understand that achieving democracy and freedom comes at a great cost. He appreciates that President Lee has set a personal example during these challenging times.
At the conclusion of the meeting, President Lee noted that Prime Minister Tusk worked alongside Lech Wałęsa, a symbolic figure of Poland’s free trade union movement. He recognizes that Poland has grown and developed the most in Europe through the power of democracy.