CANADA / REPUBLIC OF KOREA – Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, on Wednesday, concluded a successful bilateral visit to the Republic of Korea (Korea) on the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between our two countries, where he continued to strengthen ties and grow our economies.
“Canada and Korea have a strong history of shared values and priorities, including defending democracy and standing up for human rights. They also share a dynamic trade relationship, especially in sectors like clean energy, critical minerals, and emerging technologies,” said the prime minister’s office – communications, in a press release.
“While in Seoul, the prime minister held an extended bilateral meeting with the president of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, where the two leaders reiterated their mutual commitment to deepening their friendship, coordinating closely on regional and global issues, and strengthening economic ties. Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of the Canada-Korea Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and agreed to continue working together to defend shared values, grow the economy to benefit everyone and create good, middle-class jobs and opportunities for people and businesses in both countries.
“Prime minister Trudeau also welcomed president Yoon’s agreement to join the Global Carbon Pricing Challenge, a Canadian initiative to encourage the adoption of carbon pollution pricing systems which will fight climate change and grow the economy. In Canada, carbon pollution pricing remains a key pillar of Canada’s climate plan because it is one of the most effective ways to cut pollution while making life more affordable for families.”
As the world continues to face increasingly complex challenges, the two leaders underscored the importance of economic and energy security, democracy, and human rights. They agreed to work closely together to defend the rules-based international order, specifically in the Indo-Pacific and North Pacific regions, and enhance collaboration through information sharing, defence, and maritime security. Both leaders also discussed their commitment to gender equality, including advancing the meaningful participation of women in defence & security, peace operations and peace negotiations.
“The prime minister also addressed the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea, where he celebrated the strong relationship between our countries and ties between our people. He highlighted the deepening partnership between the two countries, underscored the importance of democracy and democratic institutions, and outlined key steps taken by both countries to create jobs, support families, and protect the environment,” PMO-CPM added.
As part of its Indo-Pacific Strategy, Canada will strengthen critical minerals, hydrogen, and clean energy sources, to continue positioning Canada as a responsible and reliable supplier. Given new opportunities presented by Korea’s increased demand for critical minerals, prime minister Trudeau and president Yoon witnessed the signing of a new landmark Memorandum of Understanding on Critical Mineral Supply Chains, the Clean Energy Transition, and Energy Security.
Per the press release: “This recognizes the leading role both countries can play as reliable players in the critical minerals and electric vehicles supply chains. It will continue to drive trade between the two countries, grow our economies, and create good middle-class jobs on both sides of the Pacific,” added the PMO-CPM. “Recognizing the strength of Canada and Korea’s trade partnership, the prime minister met with Korean business leaders during his time in Seoul. These meetings helped further position Canada as an investment destination of choice with a highly skilled and talented workforce, low-cost clean energy, a world-leading clean mining sector, and an excellent research community.”
The prime minister also highlighted the importance of working together on supply chains, critical minerals, and innovative research. Prime minister Trudeau and president Yoon also announced a new Youth Mobility Arrangement, which will increase work and travel opportunities available to young Canadians and Koreans. It will also help young people gain valuable experience and deepen ties between our peoples.
The prime minister’s office – communications, noted: “Before leaving Korea, prime minister Trudeau will stop in Gapyeong where he will officially open the Kapyong trail and take part in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Canadian Monument to honour Canada’s heroic contributions during the Korean War in particular the battle of Kapyong. The event will bring together youth, serving military members, and veterans.
“Canada and Korea share a close friendship built on historic ties and shared values. In the face of unprecedented global challenges, this visit has helped reaffirm that Korea is a strong and trusted partner to Canada, and I am confident that we will continue to work together to create a better future and a stronger economy for Canadians and Koreans alike. As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of our diplomatic relations, I know that we will continue to deepen our ties for a successful next 60 years,” said prime minister Trudeau.
