South Korean President Lee said Seoul will push to open free-trade agreement
negotiations with Mercosur and deepen cooperation on critical minerals to build
resilient cross-regional supply chains. He highlighted South America’s sizable
agriculture, food, energy and key mineral resources alongside Korea’s strengths
in high-end manufacturing, digital technology, shipbuilding and batteries,
saying the two sides can combine advantages to secure supply chains, foster
emerging industries and create quality jobs. Lee said Korea will leverage its
technology, industrial experience and investment capacity in cooperation on
mineral supply and related sectors, and will restart FTA talks with Mercosur.
