South Korean President Moon Jae-in (L) and Colombian President Ivan Duque pose for photos after an exchange of medals during their summit in Seoul on August 25, 2021. (Photo: Yonhap)
President Moon Jae-in and his Colombian counterpart, Ivan Duque, agreed during their summit in Seoul on Wednesday to strengthen bilateral cooperation, especially in the digital, environmental and cultural fields.
In a joint statement summing up the results of their talks, the two leaders agreed to expand exchanges and cooperation between government offices, institutions and companies in Colombia's state-led infrastructure projects, including digital transformation for economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic and the establishment of sustainable environmental protection.
They also agreed to promote cooperation in the cultural, arts, sports, tourism and education sectors.
Moon and Duque noted that the two countries' relationship is firmly based on "solidarity and friendship," as they fought side by side during the Korean War.
Speaking in front of Pool reporters, Moon said, "We will never forget the special friendship of Colombia that helped South Korea when it was in need."
He added that the two countries' relations will further develop in handling such global issues as climate change, food, public health and the fourth industrial revolution.
Duque expressed hope for stronger partnerships in trade and high-tech industries and relayed his country's intent on joining the International Vaccine Institute, headquartered in Seoul.
Moon awarded the Grand Order of Mugunghwa, South Korea's highest medal of honor, to the Colombian president, and Duque bestowed Colombia's Order of Boyaca on Moon.
They exchanged the medals in recognition of contributions to each other's national development and security.
Duque arrived in South Korea on Tuesday for a three-day state visit at Moon's invitation.
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