South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has arrived in Cairo, Egypt, as part of a four-nation tour. He landed on Wednesday local time and is scheduled to hold summit talks with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Thursday, where he will unveil new South Korean initiatives for the Middle East. The visit focuses on discussing trade, investment, and cultural exchanges amid the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
President Lee Jae-myung arrived in Cairo, Egypt, following his three-day state visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking the second leg of his four-nation tour that also includes South Africa and Turkey. He landed on Wednesday local time for a three-day visit.
On Thursday, Lee is scheduled to hold summit talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to discuss ways to expand bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. This year commemorates the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Defense industry ties are a key focus, underscored by Egypt's $1.7 billion contract with South Korean firm Hanwha Aerospace for K9 self-propelled howitzers and other military equipment. With Korean culture gaining popularity in Egypt, exchanges in this area are expected to be highlighted.
During the summit, the two countries plan to sign memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to boost practical cooperation. Afterward, Lee will deliver a speech at Cairo University outlining South Korea's vision for deeper engagement with the Middle East, as stated by National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac: he will "outline his vision for deeper engagement with the Middle East."
Later Thursday, Lee is set to meet with Korean residents in Egypt. On Friday, he will depart for Johannesburg, South Africa, to attend the Group of 20 summit.
