Abu dhabi: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung began a ten-day tour of four countries on Tuesday: the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, South Africa, and Turkey. This is his first visit to the Middle East and Africa since taking office in June.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lak stated during a press conference that Lee will begin his trip with a three-day state visit to the UAE, followed by an official visit to Egypt. From there, the president will travel to South Africa to participate in the G20 summit before concluding his trip with a two-day state visit to Turkey. He is scheduled to return to Seoul on November 26.

At the G20 meeting in Johannesburg, Lee is expected to present South Korea’s economic strategy and call for deeper cooperation with major global economies. His remarks will focus on shared challenges, including climate change, supply chain resilience, artificial intelligence, and broader economic stability. According to Wei, the president will also emphasize Seoul’s commitment to strengthening solidarity with South Africa and the African continent, expressing his readiness to support Africa’s long-term development goals.

During his bilateral visits, Lee will prioritize expanding cooperation in the defense sector and reaffirming shared commitments to peace on the Korean Peninsula and stability throughout the Middle East.

In Abu Dhabi, he will hold a summit with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss investment opportunities, energy, advanced technologies, healthcare, and cultural exchange. The UAE remains the only country in the Middle East with which South Korea has a special strategic partnership.

Lee’s visit to Cairo will include talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, as the two countries celebrate 30 years of diplomatic relations. He will also deliver a speech at Cairo University outlining Seoul’s vision for engaging with the region.

Wei added that the final stop in Turkey will include a summit with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, where cooperation in defense, nuclear energy, and biotechnology is expected to be key items on the agenda.