Athens:National Assembly Speaker Cho Jeong-sik met with Greek President Constantine Tassoulas and the Greek parliamentary leader to discuss bilateral cooperation in defense and shipbuilding, as announced by his office on Tuesday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Cho expressed hopes during his meeting with Tassoulas in Athens that South Korean companies could play a role in strengthening Greece's defense capabilities amidst increasing security threats in Europe. He emphasized the strong historical ties between the two countries, noting Greece's contribution of approximately 10,000 troops to South Korea during the Korean War, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations at that time.
Cho also conveyed his desire to deepen cooperation in the shipbuilding and shipping sectors and to expand this collaboration into future industries, including defense. In a separate discussion with Greek parliamentary leader Nikitas Kaklamanis, Cho advocated for expanding bilateral cooperation beyond current sectors into advanced technologies and defense.
This visit to Greece is part of Cho's four-nation trip, which also includes Italy, Vatican City, and Croatia. This marks his first overseas trip since assuming office in June.