President Lee Jae-myung, on a state visit to Mongolia, on the 10th (local time) described the relationship between Korea and Mongolia as "anda (a Mongolian word meaning a true friend)" and expressed a commitment to expand cooperation between the two countries.
Kang Yu-jung, senior presidential spokesperson, said that President Lee attended a state banquet hosted by President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh of Mongolia and said, "Korea will be Mongolia's 'anda' and become a partner in a new leap forward and development."
Lee also said, "In Mongolia's blue sky and vast grasslands, I felt an open heart, a spirit of inclusiveness, and a strong will, and this strength is becoming the driving force behind Mongolia's development today." He added, "Korea and Mongolia regard each other not as unfamiliar neighbors but as close friends, sharing deep trust and a special bond."
In addition to government officials from both countries, about 40 business figures also attended the banquet. Attendees included Koo Ja-eun, chairman of LS Group; Lee Hyung-hee, SK vice chairman; Kang Kyung-sung, president of Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA); Lee In-ho, vice chairman of the Korea International Trade Association; Oh Ki-woong, vice chairman of the Korea Federation of Small and Medium Enterprises; Song Byung-jun, chairman of the Venture Business Association; and Hyun Shin-kyu, president of LG CNS.