Read out of the phone call between President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the Republic of Korea Yoon Suk Yeol

On 28 October, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen spoke with the President of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, on the phone.

The two Presidents discussed the progress made on the Security and Defence Partnership announced at the EU-Korea Summit in May 2023 in Seoul. They welcomed its imminent launch.

This partnership underscores the interlinked nature of the security of Europe and East-Asia. It will reinforce the shared commitment of the EU and the Republic of Korea to promote peace and stability across both regions.

The launch of this partnership is timely, and its logic, more valid than ever, emphasised President von der Leyen during the call.

Because for the first time, North Korea soldiers are deployed in support of Russia's war of aggression.

North Korea is also increasingly providing lethal assistance to Russia. This represents a significant escalation of the war against Ukraine and threatens global peace, said President von der Leyen.

President von der Leyen assured President Yoon that the EU's response to this development will centre on cooperation with the Republic of Korea and other like-minded partners.

President von der Leyen also expressed the EU's concern regarding the deepening of Russia-North Korea military cooperation, which could embolden Pyongyang to further raise tensions on the Korean peninsula.

Finally, President von der Leyen looked forward to receiving President Yoon in Brussels on the occasion of the next EU-Korea Summit, at a time yet to be determined.