President Droupadi Murmu on Monday hosted South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday, where she also held bilateral discussions and a state banquet in his honour during his three-day visit to India.
Welcoming President Lee on his first visit to the country, President Murmu appreciated his efforts in strengthening India-South Korea relations, particularly his role as Chair of the Korea-India Parliamentary Friendship Group. She noted that the visit, coming within the first year of his presidency, reflects the importance he places on bilateral ties.
Highlighting shared democratic values, the President said both nations are vibrant democracies with a strong foundation of mutual trust. She welcomed the establishment of the India-Korea Parliamentary Friendship Group in the Indian Parliament, stating that it would further enhance dialogue and cooperation between lawmakers of both countries.
President Murmu underscored the broad scope of bilateral collaboration, noting that both sides have set an ambitious agenda covering sectors such as shipbuilding, port development, digital cooperation, small and medium enterprises, steel, education, research, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. She also welcomed the decision to resume negotiations on upgrading the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Emphasising future opportunities, the President said, “India has skill, speed and scale, while Korea has expertise in high-tech manufacturing. By combining our strengths, we can create numerous opportunities for our youth.”
She further highlighted the importance of cooperation in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, electronics, clean energy, services, and tourism. Stressing sustainability, President Murmu called for enhanced collaboration in green energy and climate technologies to secure a better future.
The two leaders agreed that closer cooperation between India and South Korea holds immense potential for mutual benefit. They emphasised expanding partnerships in areas including environment, innovation, education, skill development, and advanced technology.
