Seoul:South Korea and East Timor have agreed to enhance their collaboration in economic and social development, as well as in intellectual property and climate change responses. This agreement was reached during a summit between South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and East Timorese President Jose Ramos-Horta at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul, marking the first official visit by an East Timorese leader to South Korea since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2002.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the summit was held in anticipation of the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries next year. During the meeting, the leaders announced plans to actively share South Korea's developmental experiences with East Timor to achieve sustainable improvements in the lives of its people. A pact on grant aid is to be concluded soon to facilitate development cooperation projects.
The leaders also agreed to pursue cooperation in intellectual property, aiming to share protection systems and strengthen East Timor's capabilities in this area. Furthermore, they discussed exploring opportunities for collaboration in the green economy and climate change responses. A regular consultation mechanism will be established to support continued bilateral development and expand cooperation.
President Lee also outlined his policy towards North Korea, emphasizing peace and dialogue, which received full support from President Ramos-Horta. The summit included a luncheon featuring a fusion of the two countries' culinary cultures, highlighting their shared values. President Lee plans to gift Korean products to President Ramos-Horta, further symbolizing the strengthened partnership.