Will Lee Attend the G7 Summit After Receiving an Invitation?
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Synopsis
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung is gearing up for his first major diplomatic event as he attends the G7 summit in Canada. With a promise of pragmatic diplomacy and potential talks with world leaders, this summit could reshape South Korea's foreign relations.
Key Takeaways
- President Lee Jae-myung will attend the G7 summit in Canada.
- This will be Lee's first major diplomatic engagement.
- Expect potential talks with key leaders like Trump and Ishiba.
- Lee aims to pursue pragmatic diplomacy amid US-China tensions.
- The South Korea-US alliance remains vital for foreign policy.
Seoul, June 7 (NationPress) President Lee Jae-myung of South Korea is set to participate in the upcoming summit of the Group of Seven (G7) advanced nations, taking place in Canada this month, following an official invitation from the summit organizers, his office announced on Saturday.
Lee is scheduled to join the G7 summit in Alberta from June 15-17, as confirmed by presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung.
This summit will be significant as it represents Lee's first foray into the realm of multilateral diplomacy after assuming office on Wednesday, following his recent election victory on June 3.
Although South Korea is not a member of the G7, it has previously participated in the expanded G7 meetings in 2021 and 2023, hosted by the UK and Japan, respectively.
During the G7 summit, there is a possibility that Lee may engage in bilateral discussions with US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. A trilateral summit involving the three leaders could also be on the agenda.
In light of escalating tensions between the US and China, Lee has pledged to adopt a pragmatic approach to diplomacy that prioritizes national interests.
He emphasized that the South Korea-US alliance is the cornerstone of Seoul's foreign policy and expressed his commitment to strengthening the trilateral partnership with the US and Japan, which was enhanced during the previous administration, supported by a robust Seoul-Washington alliance.
Lee recently conducted his first phone conversation with Trump, during which they agreed on the urgency of reaching a satisfactory resolution concerning US tariffs on South Korean exports. Trump also extended an invitation for Lee to visit the US.
A Seoul presidential official reported that the 20-minute phone call was a success, fostering a sense of closeness and an amicable atmosphere between the two leaders, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
This phone call marks the return of high-level diplomacy with the US after a six-month hiatus in South Korea's leadership, following former President Yoon Suk Yeol's unsuccessful martial law attempt in December.
When inquired about the potential for a delegation to be sent to facilitate a Lee-Trump summit, the Seoul official remarked, "Currently, our focus is on thorough preparations for the G7 summit."
Additionally, the South Korean government is coordinating with China and Japan to secure phone discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Ishiba of Japan.
As for Lee's attendance at the upcoming NATO leaders' meeting in the Netherlands on June 24-25, the presidential office has yet to make a decision.
Point of View
I believe this summit represents a pivotal moment for South Korea. President Lee's participation could enhance our diplomatic relationships and showcase our commitment to stability amid global tensions, affirming our role on the international stage.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Lee attending the G7 summit?
Lee's attendance marks his first significant diplomatic engagement as South Korea's president, potentially strengthening international relations.
Who might Lee meet during the summit?
Lee could hold talks with US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, possibly leading to a trilateral summit.
What is Lee's stance on US-China relations?
Lee has committed to a pragmatic diplomacy that centers on national interests amidst renewed US-China tensions.
When is the G7 summit taking place?
The G7 summit will be held in Alberta, Canada, from June 15 to 17.
Is South Korea a member of the G7?
No, South Korea is not a G7 member but has been invited to previous expanded sessions.
