By Diplomacy Journal Lee Jon-young

President Lee Jae-myung held his first phone call with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on the afternoon of July 1, and the two leaders exchanged views on ways to develop bilateral relations, according to a written briefing by Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong.

President Lee said that New Zealand is a grateful ally that participated in the Korean War even before establishing diplomatic relations with South Korea in 1962, and that he hopes the two countries will continue to strengthen cooperation in various fields such as economy, defense and military, science and technology, and space, according to spokesperson Kang.

In response, Prime Minister Luxon sincerely congratulated President Lee on his inauguration and expressed interest in expanding cultural and human exchanges between the two countries, noting the recent rise in popularity of Korean culture in New Zealand.

The two leaders agreed on the need to upgrade bilateral relations to a “comprehensive strategic partnership” this year and to strengthen communication.

In addition, the two leaders agreed to actively cooperate as founding members of APEC to ensure the successful hosting of the 2025 APEC Summit scheduled to be held in Gyeongju in October this year, and to meet in person at an appropriate time in the future to discuss specific measures to deepen bilateral relations.