South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in key strategic sectors including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, aerospace, and critical minerals. The agreement was reached during summit talks held in Seoul, according to a statement from South Korea’s presidential office, the Blue House.
Meloni is currently visiting South Korea as part of a broader Asian tour and held high-level discussions with Lee focused on expanding technological and industrial collaboration. The two leaders emphasized the growing importance of advanced technologies such as AI and chips, particularly in the context of global supply chain stability and economic security.
South Korea, a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing, signed a memorandum of understanding with Italy aimed at enhancing cooperation in the chip industry, including semiconductors linked to artificial intelligence applications. The agreement reflects both countries’ interest in aligning their industrial strategies and fostering innovation through closer ties between companies and research institutions.
In addition to technology cooperation, Lee and Meloni agreed to intensify joint efforts to build resilient and reliable supply chains for critical minerals, which are essential for semiconductors, batteries, and aerospace industries. The leaders also discussed expanding collaboration in joint research projects, academic exchanges, tourism, and cultural initiatives.
Security issues were also addressed during the talks, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to the denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula. The discussions highlighted Italy’s support for regional stability and its broader engagement with East Asia.
Italy is currently one of South Korea’s four largest trading partners within the European Union. Meloni’s visit marks the first state visit by an Italian leader to South Korea in 19 years, underlining the renewed momentum in bilateral relations. During the meeting, the Italian Prime Minister expressed her expectation that President Lee may pay a state visit to Italy later this year.
