By Diplomacy Journal Lee Jon-young

President Yoon Suk-yeol received a group of ministers and vice ministers from five African countries who are visiting Korea to attend the Ministerial Meeting on the first day of the 3rd Democracy Summit at the Presidential Office on March 19.

The five African countries are Gambia, Mozambique, Kenya, Mauritius and Botswana.

The President assessed that the five countries share the universal value of democracy with Korea and have formed close and friendly relations, and expressed his hope that they will strengthen cooperation in various fields to develop democracy for future generations.

The President also said that the first-ever Korea-Africa Summit, to be held on June 4 and 5, will be a meaningful occasion for Korea and Africa to dramatically elevate their relations and discuss the future they will create together, and that the Korean government is making every effort to expand practical and substantial cooperation with African countries through the Summit, and called for the interest and cooperation of African countries in making the Summit a success.

The ministers and vice ministers of the five African countries praised the success of the Democracy Summit and said that Korea's experience in achieving economic growth and democracy together is a great example for Africa, including the five countries. 

They also expressed high expectations and interest from the African side for the Korea-Africa Summit to be held in June, and pledged to play an active role and support for the successful organization of the summit.