Lee Jaeyong: "Pragmatic Governance Philosophy Will Greatly Empower Businesses... Scheduled Investments and Hiring Will Proceed Without Delay"
Chey Taewon: "Turning Crisis into Opportunity Through Close Public-Private Cooperation... Will Invite 'Big Shot' Business Leaders to APEC"
On June 13, the business community, after meeting with President Lee Jaemyung, stated that the public and private sectors would do their utmost to overcome the economic crisis through cooperation. President Lee held a meeting at the presidential office from 10:00 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. with the heads of the five major conglomerates and the leaders of six economic organizations.
Lee Jae-yong, Chairman of Samsung Electronics, said, "Thank you for creating this opportunity for communication," and added, "The philosophy of pragmatic market-oriented governance advocated by President Lee will be a great source of strength not only for Samsung but for all companies in our country." He continued, "If the public and private sectors unite around the President's leadership, we can surely overcome the economic crisis," and emphasized, "Samsung will faithfully carry out its planned investments and hiring to do our best in navigating the difficult economic situation."
Chairman Lee also stressed the importance of preparing for the next generation of growth drivers. He said, "Samsung is increasing its investments in artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and bio industries," and emphasized, "We will strive to apply AI to traditional industries to boost productivity and create high-paying jobs."
Regarding the fair economy mentioned by President Lee in his opening remarks, Chairman Lee said, "I believe we are doing our best to pursue mutual growth with small and medium-sized enterprises," and added, "Samsung's social contribution activities focus on youth education and helping young people adapt to society." Chairman Lee also mentioned that he had read President Lee's autobiography after his inauguration.
Chey Tae-won, Chairman of SK Group and the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, also expressed his expectations for President Lee. Chairman Chey said, "I hope today's meeting will serve as an opportunity to gather wisdom to turn crises into opportunities through close cooperation between the public and private sectors," and added, "I ask that you continue to listen to the voices of businesses in the future." He continued, "It seems that the President and the new administration are putting much thought into coordinating trade and industrial policies," and stated, "Companies will also work together with the government to find solutions."
Chairman Chey also mentioned the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting to be held in November. He said, "We are aiming to attract 1,700 overseas companies. It is an excellent platform where the public and private sectors can speak with 'one voice' in cooperation," and added, "Since the President has requested the attendance of the leaders of the United States, China, and Japan at the APEC meeting, we will strive to invite major 'big shot' business leaders to ensure the success of the APEC CEO Summit."
After Chairman Chey's remarks, when the moderator called on Koo Kwang-mo, Chairman of LG Group, Chairman Koo responded, "In private," and the meeting was then switched to a closed session.
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