Accra:Seoul President Lee Jae Myung met with World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to discuss strategies for improved collaboration in the healthcare sector, as reported by Lee's office. The discussion took place at Cheong Wa Dae during Tedros' visit to Seoul for the World Bio Summit 2026, co-hosted by WHO and South Korea.
According to Yonhap News Agency, during the meeting, President Lee emphasized the importance of South Korea expanding its role and contributions to the global community. He expressed optimism about enhancing Seoul's cooperation with WHO in terms of health security.
President Lee encouraged Tedros to facilitate opportunities for more skilled South Koreans to contribute to WHO, highlighting South Korea's evolution from a recipient of international aid to a significant contributor. In response, Tedros acknowledged South Korea's efforts to bolster cooperation with WHO and its commitment to advancing global health, while recognizing the nation's developmental achievements.
Tedros also underscored the necessity for equitable international cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI) and expressed interest in deepening collaboration with South Korea in AI and biotechnology. Additionally, the leaders exchanged views on international efforts to prevent and respond to infectious diseases.