Lee: 'Frequent overseas trips early in term... greatly help economic, security cooperation'

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung defended his administration's active overseas travel schedule early in his term, stating the goal is to swiftly normalize and deepen relations with other nations to achieve concrete outcomes. Speaking at a gathering of expatriates in São Paulo, Brazil, Lee noted that such early-term engagement is crucial for establishing trust and fostering cooperation.

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I tend to visit as many countries as possible at the beginning of my term to normalize and deepen relations between countries

"I tend to visit as many countries as possible at the beginning of my term to normalize and deepen relations between countries," Lee explained. He stressed the practical benefits of summit diplomacy, asserting that direct interactions between leaders significantly aid economic and security collaboration, as well as private exchanges. "It's not just a formal visit; if you build substantial trust, businesses operating abroad, local residents, and even companies exporting goods to that country see rapid improvements," he added.

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It's not just a formal visit; if you build substantial trust, businesses operating abroad, local residents, and even companies exporting goods to that country see rapid improvements

Lee also shared a personal anecdote about his connection with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, highlighting their shared experience as former laborers. "He told me, 'There are only you and I in the world with presidential experience as laborers. How many people truly understand the hardships of the common people and genuinely strive to solve them? Let's both work hard,'" Lee recounted, praising Lula as an "excellent person."

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He told me, 'There are only you and I in the world with presidential experience as laborers. How many people truly understand the hardships of the common people and genuinely strive to solve them? Let's both work hard,'

The South Korean president expressed optimism about future collaboration with Brazil, leveraging the nation's abundant resources and large market with South Korea's technology and innovation. He also acknowledged the vital role of the Korean diaspora, calling them "indispensable private diplomats" who serve as a strong bridge between the two nations due to their understanding of both cultures and markets. The head of the Korean Residents Association in Brazil, Kim Bruno, expressed gratitude for Lee's visit and pledged continued contributions to bilateral relations.

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excellent person