South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has pledged $100 million in comprehensive support for Ukraine during the NATO summit. However, he made it clear that this support will not include lethal weapons.
Weon Sang-rok, the head of the National Security Office, briefed reporters at a press center in Ankara, Turkey, on July 7, stating, "The government has consistently supported Ukraine through various channels, including humanitarian aid. This $100 million commitment is an extension of our efforts to expand our contributions."
He emphasized, "By promising comprehensive support for Ukraine, we have demonstrated our commitment to contributing to international peace and security. South Korea will continue to work with the international community to ensure that the horrific war ends as soon as possible and that a peaceful daily life can be restored."
The Blue House also assessed that President Lee's participation in the NATO summit has secured a foundation for building a defense supply chain with NATO.
Weon noted, "During the meeting between President Lee and NATO Secretary General, both sides announced the commencement of negotiations for a Korea-NATO procurement framework agreement. This agreement will outline the legal and administrative matters necessary for logistics and defense cooperation and procurement contracts between NATO and partner countries."
The NATO joint procurement market is estimated to be worth 15 trillion won annually.
Weon added, "Participation in this initiative will enhance interoperability between weapon systems of South Korea and NATO, broadening the foundation for our companies to enter the NATO defense market while also contributing to stable procurement conditions for our military supplies."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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