Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Strategy and Finance Choi Sang-mok spoke with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on the 12th, sharing the view that they will 'firmly maintain' defense cooperation.
Choi noted that Poland has expressed 'security' as its top priority while holding the European Union (EU) presidency in the first half of this year, adding, 'Korea can become the optimal strategic partner in the field of defense and security.' He further stated, 'The defense cooperation between Korea and Poland will continue to be firmly maintained with bipartisan support going forward.'
Prime Minister Tusk responded, 'Poland places great importance on its relationship with Korea and will continue to advance cooperation with Korea, including in defense, without any disruptions.'
Prime Minister Tusk also expressed his appreciation for the resilience of Korean democracy. Choi stated, 'I appreciate that key figures in Poland have expressed their confidence in Korea's democracy,' adding, 'Our government will do its utmost to ensure stable management of external relations and unwavering performance in all areas.'
Meanwhile, Korea and Poland marked the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations last year. Polish President Andrzej Duda also made a state visit to Korea in October last year. Choi and Tusk positively assessed that Korea and Poland are actively maintaining a close momentum of high-level exchanges.
Both sides agreed to continue cooperation to strengthen the strategic partnership in various areas, including trade, investment, and advanced industries.