South Korea and Mexico's foreign ministers met in Seoul on August 24 to discuss expanding cooperation in trade, investment, artificial intelligence (AI), space, education, and defense industries, as well as strengthening ties among middle powers. The two countries assessed that they are opening a new chapter in their strategic partnership across various fields, building on the momentum of high-level exchanges that have continued throughout the year.
During the meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Seoul, Minister Cho Hyun stated, "In a time of increasing uncertainty in the global economy, from supply chains and energy to food security, the relationship between our two countries has become more important than ever."
He added, "By strengthening the institutional framework for trade and investment and diversifying cooperation in areas such as AI, space, education, and defense industries, we can realize the potential of our bilateral relationship."
Minister Cho emphasized that Mexico is South Korea's largest trading and investment partner in Latin America, noting that recent large-scale investments by South Korean companies are ongoing. He stressed that resuming bilateral FTA negotiations is essential to accelerate this trend. He also urged the Mexican government to pay attention to the concerns of South Korean companies during the USMCA review process with the United States.
Minister Roberto Velasco highlighted that both countries have a responsibility to contribute to the international order in which they participate, emphasizing that their relationship is based on shared principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. He acknowledged that South Korea is Mexico's fifth-largest trading partner and a major investor, stating that the Mexican government is considering the interests of South Korean companies in the ongoing USMCA review with the United States.
Both ministers noted their cooperation in building a more inclusive and representative international order through platforms such as the United Nations, the G20, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), and MIKTA.
MIKTA is a regional consultative group formed in September 2013 during the 68th United Nations General Assembly, consisting of South Korea, Mexico, Indonesia, Turkey, and Australia, aimed at enhancing global governance.
The two ministers agreed to closely cooperate in preparation for an upcoming visit by South Korean President Lee Jae-myung to Mexico, following the acceptance of an invitation from Mexican President Sheinbaum during a phone call between the two leaders in May.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.