President Lee begins 10-day European tour, to attend G7 Summit

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung is embarking on a 9-day, 10-night diplomatic tour of Europe, commencing June 9, which includes visits to Belgium, the European Union, Italy, and the Vatican City.

The primary objective of the trip is to broaden South Korea's diplomatic engagement with Europe and to solidify its position as a globally responsible nation, particularly through its participation in international forums. This visit is seen as a significant opportunity to build upon the diplomatic achievements of President Lee's first year in office.

President Lee's itinerary begins in Brussels on the evening of June 9, where he will meet with the local Korean community. The following day, he is scheduled to hold summit talks with Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and meet with King Philippe of Belgium. He will also participate in a Korea-EU summit, including an agreement signing ceremony.

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This European tour and attendance at the G7 Summit is an opportunity to broaden the diplomatic horizons to Europe based on the diplomatic achievements of the past year since the inauguration of the Lee Jae-myung administration.

Following his engagements in Belgium, President Lee will travel to Rome for a state visit to Italy from June 10 to 13. His schedule includes a state dinner with Italian President Sergio Mattarella, a summit lunch with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and a Korea-Italy business roundtable to foster bilateral economic cooperation. He will also visit Florence as per Italian state visit customs.

On June 14 and 15, President Lee will visit the Vatican, attending a special mass and meeting with Pope Francis and Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin. The culmination of his European tour will be his attendance at the G7 Summit in Evian, France, on June 16-17. This marks his second consecutive year attending the summit, where he will participate in expanded sessions as an invited guest.

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It is expected to contribute to establishing our status as a global responsible power aiming for G7 Plus by expanding participation in major international issues.