Surprise Greeting to Press on Charter Flight to Spain
Diplomatic Schedule from 28th... 'Sales Diplomacy' at Summits with Netherlands, Poland, and Czech Leaders
President Yoon Suk-yeol is speaking with reporters on Air Force One heading to Madrid, Spain, on the 27th (local time).
(Madrid, Spain = Asia Economy Reporter Baek Kyunghwan) President Yoon Suk-yeol stated that he will use this North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit as an opportunity to confirm current issues with other world leaders. Arriving in Madrid, Spain, where the NATO summit is being held, on the afternoon of the 27th (local time), President Yoon will rest and then begin his diplomatic schedule from the 28th.
Onboard Air Force One en route to Madrid, President Yoon told reporters, "This schedule does not allow much time for multilateral or partner meetings," adding, "We will get to know each other and briefly confirm current issues."
At this occasion, after greeting reporters individually, when asked about his thoughts on his first overseas trip, President Yoon replied, "Would there be any special mindset?" but added, "I couldn’t rest because I was reviewing materials." Through this NATO summit, President Yoon plans to attend at least 14 diplomatic events and engage in sales diplomacy related to defense industry and nuclear power.
Regarding the long 15-hour flight, he revealed that he watched the Premier League (EPL) and read books. His wife, First Lady Kim Keon-hee, joined later and greeted the reporters.
Meanwhile, on the 28th, President Yoon will meet with the Australian President and the NATO Secretary-General, and attend a welcome gala dinner hosted by the King of Spain. On the 29th, he will participate in the NATO member and partner countries’ summit, followed by a trilateral summit with the leaders of South Korea, the United States, and Japan. Bilateral meetings with the leaders of the Netherlands, Poland, and Denmark are also scheduled consecutively. On the final day, the 30th, he will hold bilateral meetings with the Czech and UK leaders, have lunch with Spanish businesspeople, and then return home.
First Lady Kim will also make her 'multilateral diplomatic debut' during this schedule. Drawing on her experience running Covana Contents and hosting performances and art exhibitions, she will engage in related activities. According to the Presidential Office, First Lady Kim will participate in at least five public events, including attending the spouses’ session of attending country leaders in Madrid, Spain.
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