Yoon Meets Saudi Minister of National Defense... Promoting Excellence of Korean Defense Industry

President Yoon Suk-yeol is shaking hands with Abdullah bin Bandar Al Saud, Minister of National Defense of Saudi Arabia, during a meeting at the Yongsan Presidential Office Building in Seoul on the 5th. Photo by Yonhap News

President Yoon Suk-yeol met on the afternoon of the 5th at the Yongsan Presidential Office with Abdullah bin Bandar Al Saud, Saudi Arabia's Minister of National Defense, who is visiting Korea, and discussed ways to enhance defense and defense industry cooperation between the two countries, the presidential office announced.

President Yoon welcomed Minister Abdullah, describing Saudi Arabia as "a very special country and a key partner in our economy and energy security." He also noted that through mutual visits with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed in 2022 and 2023, the bilateral relationship was elevated to a "future-oriented strategic partnership," which greatly expanded defense and defense industry cooperation.

President Yoon highlighted the excellence of Korea's defense industry, which has developed in response to the real military threats from North Korea. Emphasizing that Korea is the best partner for Saudi Arabia in various fields of cooperation, he stated that defense industry collaboration between the two countries will play a crucial role not only in strengthening Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities but also in advancing bilateral relations.

Minister Abdullah evaluated that defense cooperation between the two countries is already progressing at a high level, and through observing the firepower demonstration and equipment exhibition prepared by the Korean Army that day, he was able to once again experience the excellence of Korea's defense industry. He also expressed deep gratitude for the deepening and development of relations between the two countries.

The presidential office explained, "The meeting was held in a favorable atmosphere, and both sides expected that this encounter would serve as an opportunity to further expand cooperation between Korea and Saudi Arabia."