By Diplomacy Journal Lee Jon-young

President Lee Jae-myung talked with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte by phone and exchanged opinions on ways to deepen the partnership between South Korea and NATO on July 3.

Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong said in a briefing that day that this was the first time President Lee had spoken with Secretary General Rutte since taking office.

Secretary General Rutte congratulated President Lee and expressed his regret at not being able to meet him at the NATO summit, but also expressed his gratitude for the South Korean government's firm commitment to cooperation with NATO, as conveyed by the National Security Advisor, according to spokesperson Kang.

In response, President Lee congratulated NATO on the successful summit last week and emphasized that “our government will continue its efforts to deepen the partnership between South Korea and NATO amid the multifaceted global crisis.”

During the call, the two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in the defense industry.

They discussed specific defense cooperation measures, such as promoting interoperability and South Korea's participation in NATO's high-visibility projects, and agreed to continue close communication in responding to regional and global security challenges.

Secretary General Lutte said, “As an honorary citizen of Seoul, I wish President Lee’s success in his administration,” and expressed his hope to meet in person at a mutually convenient time to exchange opinions. President Lee welcomed this and replied, “I look forward to Secretary General Lutte's visit to Korea at any time.”