South Korean President Lee Jae-myung extended a warm welcome to Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi on Wednesday, marking the first visit by an Egyptian leader to South Korea in 10 years. Lee expressed his hopes that the economic miracles of both countries, known as the "Miracle on the Han River" for South Korea and the "Miracle on the Nile" for Egypt, would come together to enhance shared prosperity.
To convey his warm welcome, Lee shared a video message on social media, showcasing Seoul's iconic Lotte World Tower lit up with animated Egyptian and South Korean flags. The tower, standing at 555 meters with 123 stories, houses offices, residences, a hotel, and an observation deck. Lee described El-Sisi as a "dear guest" and recalled their candid dialogue in Cairo last year, which added significance to their reunion in Seoul.
El-Sisi arrived at Seoul Air Base on Tuesday, beginning his three-country Asian tour that will also take him to Malaysia and Indonesia. During his visit, he will engage in talks with Lee and participate in a roundtable discussion with heads and representatives of leading South Korean companies. The leaders are expected to discuss various issues, including trade, investment, infrastructure, and supply-chain cooperation.
This visit follows the launch of the first strategic dialogue between Egypt and South Korea in Seoul in June, focusing on economic, investment, and development cooperation. The dialogue aimed to strengthen bilateral ties and explore opportunities for collaboration in various sectors. South Korea's coverage has highlighted the growing cooperation between the two nations ahead of El-Sisi's tour.
El-Sisi's programme in South Korea includes discussions with 23 companies, during which he is expected to renew his call for a Korean industrial zone. The Egyptian presidency has not provided further details on the proposed industrial zone, but it is seen as a key aspect of Egypt's efforts to attract foreign investment and boost economic growth.
The visit by El-Sisi to South Korea is seen as a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new opportunities for cooperation. Both countries have expressed their commitment to deepening ties and enhancing mutual benefits. The two leaders' discussions are expected to pave the way for future collaborations and agreements.
El-Sisi's Asian tour is expected to deepen Egypt's partnerships with key countries in the region. His upcoming visits to Malaysia and Indonesia will provide further opportunities for discussions on trade, investment, and cooperation. The tour is seen as part of Egypt's efforts to strengthen its international relations and attract foreign investment to support its economic development.
Key points
- South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi discussed ways to enhance shared prosperity through economic cooperation.
- El-Sisi's visit to South Korea marked the first visit by an Egyptian leader in 10 years.
- The two countries launched their first strategic dialogue in Seoul in June, focusing on economic, investment, and development cooperation.
