Start of Korea-UAE Summit, Discussing Economic Cooperation on Nuclear Power, Defense Industry, and Infrastructure

First State Visit Since Diplomatic Relations Established in 1980... Discussion on Elevating to a 'Special Strategic Partnership'

[Abu Dhabi=Asia Economy Reporter Baek Kyunghwan] President Yoon Suk-yeol, who is on a state visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), began a summit meeting with President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the 15th (local time). The meeting is expected to yield results that strengthen cooperation in the fields of nuclear power, defense, infrastructure construction, and investment.

At the summit held at the Abu Dhabi Presidential Palace, 'Qasr Al Watan,' the two leaders will discuss elevating their relationship to a 'special strategic partnership,' the highest level of cooperation. Before his trip, President Yoon stated on Facebook, "The UAE is our key partner in nuclear power, energy, investment, and defense," adding, "Through economy-centered summit diplomacy, we will create an opportunity to overcome complex crises through exports and investment."

President Yoon Suk-yeol, who is on a state visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is moving to the reviewing stand at the official welcoming ceremony held at the Abu Dhabi Presidential Palace on the 15th (local time).
[Photo by Yonhap News]

This is the first time since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1980 that a Korean head of state has visited the UAE in the form of a state visit with the highest protocol honors. President Yoon will stay in the UAE until the 17th, during which he plans to visit the Ark Unit, a symbol of 'Korea-UAE military cooperation,' to encourage Korean troops, and also visit the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, an overseas nuclear power plant contracted by Korea. In addition, through business forums involving companies from both countries, he is expected to outline a vision for economic cooperation.

On this day, President Yoon began the second day of his state visit official schedule by paying respects at the UAE Martyrs' Cemetery together with First Lady Kim Keon-hee. In the guestbook at the cemetery, President Yoon wrote, "I pay tribute to the heroes who dedicated themselves to the nation and world peace," and added, "The United Arab Emirates begins right here."