Taking place in the context of the two countries celebrating the 75th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations, RoK President Yoon Suk Yeol's visit to the Philippines marked a special milestone as the two sides upgraded their relationship to a strategic partnership. The RoK leader's schedule shows that strengthening economic cooperation is a focus on the agenda.
The two country's leaders discussed directions for expanding economic cooperation in the supply chain, energy, defence and maritime industry. In addition, with representatives of about 40 leading RoK enterprises accompanying President Yoon Suk Yeol, the visit paved the way for the signing of new cooperation agreements, demonstrating the dynamism and development of RoK-Philippines relations, creating momentum for the two sides to upgrade bilateral relations.
President Yoon Suk Yeol's visit to the Philippines also aims to realise RoK's ambition to promote a diversified foreign policy, reduce economic dependence on traditional partners and respond to disruptions in the global supply chain. Experts say that with abundant natural resources and an economy with the fastest growth rate in Southeast Asia, the Philippines can support the RoK in diversifying its energy and raw material supplies.
During the next stop, the RoK President will pay a state visit to Singapore, as the two countries look forward to celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025. Analysts say there are many reasons for the RoK and Singapore to maintain a strong relationship. The RoK is a leading country investing in science and technology development.
Meanwhile, Singapore is an important factor in global trade and technological innovation. To promote the similarities in bilateral relations, during President Yoon Suk Yeol's visit, many agreements will be signed to pave the way for businesses from both countries to explore new cooperation opportunities in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and the digital economy.
An important highlight of the trip is the South Korean President's attendance at the ASEAN Summit in Laos. This is the third consecutive year Mr Yoon Suk Yeol has attended ASEAN meetings, demonstrating Seoul's importance in its relationship with the Association of 10 Southeast Asian countries.
According to analysts, with a total population of more than 670 million people, ASEAN is an attractive market for RoK goods and services. ASEAN's strategic position in the Indo-Pacific region highlights the Association's role as an important partner in maintaining regional stability and security.
RoK leaders have repeatedly emphasised ASEAN as the focus of their country's foreign policy while affirming their desire to upgrade RoK-ASEAN relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. According to the RoK Presidential Office, Seoul's wish will be realised during President Yoon Suk Yeol's visit, marking a major step forward in cooperation between the two sides after 35 years of development together. In a press interview before the visit, President Yoon Suk Yeol expressed his hope to further expand cooperation between the RoK and ASEAN in many areas, such as politics, cybersecurity, environment, finance, etc.
RoK President Yoon Suk Yeol has repeatedly affirmed the important role of Southeast Asian countries in Seoul's foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific region. Based on the strong relationship that has been continuously nurtured over the past time, this visit of the head of the Blue House affirms the RoK's desire to further strengthen its connection with the Southeast Asian region.
