President Yoon Suk-yeol received British Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, who is in Korea for the 3rd Democracy Summit on March 20.
The President welcomed the UK’s active participation in the Democracy Summit as the originator of parliamentary democracy and looked forward to lively discussions on the theme of the Summit, ‘Promoting Democracy for Future Generations’.
The President also noted that the Downing Street Agreement, which he signed with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak during his state visit to the UK last November, marked a new milestone in the development of bilateral relations, and called for Dowden’s special attention to ensure that the agreement is fully implemented.
Noting that the two countries, which have been elevated to a “Global Strategic Partnership” under the Downing Street Agreement, work closely together on security, economics, finance, climate, and the environment, as well as cutting-edge science and technology, including artificial intelligence, bio and brain science research, space, and quantum, Dowden said the UK attaches great importance to strengthening its relationship with South Korea, a country that shares the values of freedom, human rights, and the rule of law, and a global center of gravity as it expands its cooperation with the region.
The President recalled that the United Kingdom, along with the United States and Australia, is one of three countries with which the Republic of Korea regularly holds 2+2 meetings between its foreign and defense ministers, and encouraged the 2+2 meetings to further develop cooperation in all areas of defense and security.
The President and Mr. Dowden also exchanged views on the situation on the Korean Peninsula and key regional issues, and agreed to continue to work closely together to ensure that both countries contribute to the promotion and defense of democracy.
