Cairo: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung held summit talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, agreeing to work together to promote peace on the Korean Peninsula and in the Middle East, while also strengthening economic and defense cooperation.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the summit took place in Cairo during Lee’s official visit to Egypt, marking the first such visit by a South Korean president in three years. President Lee stated at a joint press conference at the Presidential Palace that both nations have agreed to act as ‘facilitators of peace’ and contribute to international stability, particularly focusing on the Korean Peninsula and the Middle East.
President Lee acknowledged President Sisi’s commendation of Seoul’s efforts toward peaceful coexistence and shared growth, while also expressing support for Egypt’s initiatives to secure a ceasefire and advance reconstruction in the Gaza Strip. President Lee affirmed South Korea’s commitment to cooperating with Egypt to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The leaders discussed broadening defense cooperation, including potential expansion beyond the joint production of K-9 howitzers to aircraft systems and ground weapons. In 2022, Egypt signed a $1.7 billion contract with South Korean defense company Hanwha Aerospace for K-9 self-propelled howitzers, with delivery expected next year. President Lee expressed hope for expanded cooperation to include other South Korean-developed weapons systems, with President Sisi showing confidence in the advanced technologies and mutual benefits of such collaboration.
The summit also focused on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership (CEPP) agreement, which aims to reduce trade barriers and enhance economic collaboration between South Korea and Egypt. National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lak revealed that a joint study on the agreement has been completed, and preparations for a joint declaration are underway. Wi emphasized that the CEPP, once concluded, would boost bilateral trade by expanding market access.
In addition to economic and defense matters, the two countries signed memoranda of understanding to enhance educational and cultural exchanges. This move reflects the growing popularity of Korean cultural content in Egypt, including dramas, K-pop, food, and the Korean language.
Regionally, discussions included Egypt’s reconstruction efforts in Gaza, following a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. Wi Sung-lak confirmed that Egypt requested South Korea’s involvement in reconstruction, with Seoul agreeing to provide financial assistance and involve private companies, excluding military involvement.
President Lee extended an invitation to President Sisi for a visit to South Korea next year, aiming for continued dialogue and practical cooperation between the two leaders, marking what would be Sisi’s first visit to South Korea in nearly a decade.