SEOUL - Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has concluded his tour of Norway and Finland, part of a broader effort to secure support for South Korea's bid to host the 2030 World Expo.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Han's office reported that after visits to Malawi, Togo, and Cameroon, he arrived in Norway on Thursday to discuss strengthening economic ties with Norwegian business leaders. During talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, Han advocated for expanded cooperation in various sectors and solicited Norway's backing for Busan as the World Expo host city, highlighting the event's potential to deepen mutual relations.
The decision on the host will be made in a vote by the Bureau International des Expositions' member states in late November. In Finland, marking 50 years of diplomatic ties, Han met with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, expressing desires for increased collaboration on climate and economic security. Orpo echoed this sentiment, calling for further partnership in advanced science and technology. Additionally, Han sought Finland's endorsement for the expo bid.
Before returning to South Korea on Saturday, the Prime Minister is scheduled to engage with influential Finnish business figures on Friday.