President Moon Departs for Australia... Discussions on Defense Industry and Mineral Supply Chains (Comprehensive)

Australia Invites Foreign Leaders for the First Time Since COVID-19... Secretary Yoo Young-min and Minister Jeon Hae-cheol See Off President Moon

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Jeong-min] President Moon Jae-in departed through Seoul Airport on the morning of the 12th for a state visit to Australia.

It has been 12 years since a Korean head of state made a state visit to Australia. Australia is the first country to invite a foreign head of state since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The general view is that the reason for inviting President Moon despite the difficulties caused by COVID-19 is linked to the mutual understanding and demand for economic cooperation between the two countries.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

During this visit to Australia, President Moon plans to continue cooperation in defense, hydrogen, and mineral supply chains. Additionally, President Moon intends to discuss the peace process on the Korean Peninsula and the situation in Northeast Asia.

Official schedules include a summit meeting with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, a joint press conference, a wreath-laying ceremony at the Korean War Memorial, and a dinner with Korean War veterans.

Meanwhile, at the departure gate, Presidential Chief of Staff Yoo Young-min and Minister of the Interior and Safety Jeon Hae-cheol were present to see President Moon off. President Moon wore a black coat over a suit, and First Lady Kim Jung-sook wore a long coat with black pants and a suit.

President Moon is scheduled to return on the 15th after completing his visit to Australia.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.