Is South Korean President Lee Ready for the G20 Summit in Johannesburg?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- President Lee Jae Myung is attending the G20 summit in South Africa.
- Focus areas include inclusive growth and climate change.
- Meetings with global leaders aim to enhance cooperation.
- First G20 summit held in Africa.
- Lee’s initiatives target Middle East collaboration.
Cairo, Nov 21 (NationPress) South Korean President Lee Jae Myung concluded his official trip to Egypt and departed for South Africa on Friday to participate in the Group of 20 (G20) summit. At this gathering, he is anticipated to address pressing global matters such as inclusive growth and climate change.
While in Cairo, Lee engaged in summit discussions with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to explore enhanced collaboration in peace initiatives and the defense sector. He also presented a speech outlining his proposal for increased engagement in the Middle East.
Additionally, Lee introduced a thorough initiative for collaboration within the Middle East, aiming to foster regional peace, strengthen economic partnerships, and facilitate cultural and interpersonal exchanges, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
Lee is set for a three-day visit to Johannesburg for the G20 summit, which will take place from Saturday to Sunday under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.”
During the G20 summit, Lee will showcase South Korea's economic and climate strategies and commit to a more proactive role on the international stage, according to National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac.
As this year's G20 summit marks the first time it is held in Africa, Lee aims to emphasize Seoul's dedication to enhancing cooperation with the continent, reinforcing solidarity, and assisting in its development, Wi noted.
On the sidelines of the summit, Lee plans to conduct numerous bilateral and multilateral discussions.
He intends to meet with leaders from MIKTA—a coalition of five middle powers comprising South Korea, Mexico, Indonesia, Turkey, and Australia—to deliberate on strategies for bolstering multilateral cooperation regarding global challenges.
Furthermore, Lee is scheduled for consecutive talks with leaders from France and Germany to explore bilateral relations, as disclosed to reporters by Wi.
“President Lee will elevate Korea's status as a responsible global participant and spearhead efforts to cultivate an environment conducive to restoring the multilateral trade system,” Wi stated on Thursday.
Following the three-day visit to South Africa, Lee will fly to Turkey on Monday, marking the final stop of his tour across the Middle East and Africa, which included a visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).