President Lee highlights summit diplomacy's role in boosting economic ties

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has underscored the substantial benefits of summit diplomacy for economic exchange and cooperation during his state visit to Brazil. Speaking at an overseas Koreans' luncheon in Sao Paulo, Lee noted that his administration has prioritized international travel since taking office.

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These meetings between heads of state greatly help economic and security cooperation, and private exchanges.

"These meetings between heads of state greatly help economic and security cooperation, and private exchanges," Lee stated. He elaborated that establishing practical trust between leaders can swiftly improve conditions for companies operating abroad, local Korean communities, and exporters. "Therefore, I tend to visit as many countries as possible early in my term to normalize or deepen relations between nations."

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Therefore, I tend to visit as many countries as possible early in my term to normalize or deepen relations between nations.

Lee also referenced his recent summit with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. He shared that Lula conveyed his regards to the overseas Koreans and recalled Lula's remark about them being the only two presidents with working-class backgrounds. "He said, 'How many people in the world truly run with sincerity to solve the difficulties of the people? Let's both try hard,'" Lee recounted, praising Lula as an "excellent person."

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Lula said he asked me to send his regards to you all. Really.

Reflecting on Lula's previous terms, Lee observed Brazil's rapid economic growth and significant improvements in income and education inequality. He suggested these achievements greatly contributed to Brazil's national development. During the event, Lee also presented appreciation plaques to four first-generation Korean immigrants who moved to Brazil in the 1950s-1970s.

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How many people in the world truly run with sincerity to solve the difficulties of the people? Let's both try hard.