On the 17th (local time), President Lee Jae-myung, who visited Canada to attend the Group of Seven (G7) summit, held a meeting with the Prime Minister of Australia and noted that "the two countries have an incredibly close special relationship" and expressed hope that this meeting would serve as an opportunity for the relationship between Korea and Australia to develop into a much more collaborative and future-oriented relationship than it is now.
On this day, President Lee met with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia at a hotel in downtown Calgary and made these remarks. Prime Minister Albanese had previously conveyed his congratulations to President Lee over the phone after his inauguration.
President Lee complimented, "You look much younger and more handsome than I thought when I heard your voice a few days ago during the currency call," to which Prime Minister Albanese responded with a big smile, "You are very kind."
President Lee mentioned that during the Korean War, Australia was a friendly country that dispatched troops, saying, "Because of that contribution, the country of Korea has survived and is able to be together here today."
He also evaluated that the two countries cooperate for stability and prosperity in the regional and international community as a "comprehensive strategic partner." Previously, the two countries elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership in February 2021, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
In particular, President Lee stated, "The two countries have a very close economic relationship, and there are many areas for future cooperation," adding, "In particular, we are quite dependent on Australia regarding resource issues and energy issues."
He also expressed hope that they could meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting to be held in Gyeongju this November.
In response, Prime Minister Albanese suggested that the two countries strengthen their cooperation in related fields, including defense, clean energy, and critical minerals, based on a long-standing trust and solidarity.