Calay News
Two senior European officials, the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, met in Seoul with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to discuss both the conflict in Ukraine and the program of North Korean arms. This visit marks the first time that European leaders have visited this East Asian country and coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between South Korea and the European Union.
During the joint press conference after the meeting, President Yoon stressed the importance of the relationship between South Korea and the European Union, noting that both are important partners who share universal values such as freedom, human rights, and the rule of law. He also mentioned that in the past 60 years, cooperation between the two parties has flourished in all areas.
In the joint statement issued, the leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in the fight against global threats, including the war in Ukraine and North Korea’s weapons programs. They condemned North Korea’s illegal launches of ballistic missiles and nuclear development, as well as references to the possible use of nuclear weapons. In addition, they expressed their support for Seoul’s efforts to persuade Pyongyang to give up such weapons. Support for Ukraine in financial, material, security, and humanitarian terms was also discussed.
In relation to Ukraine, South Korea has provided humanitarian assistance and sold tanks and howitzers to Poland, Kyiv’s ally in its confrontation with the Russian invasion. Although Seoul has maintained a policy of not supplying weapons to active conflict zones, President Yoon has suggested that this could change.
European and South Korean leaders urged greater collective pressure on Russia and reaffirmed their commitment to support Ukraine in this difficult situation.
