▲ President Lee Jae Myung speaks during a meeting with Korean residents in Vietnam at a hotel in Hanoi on April 22, 2026. (Yonhap)

Lee-Vietnam cooperation

Lee vows closer cooperation with Vietnam in nuclear energy, supply chains

By Kim Eun-jung

HANOI, April 22 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung said Wednesday that South Korea will explore ways to expand cooperation with Vietnam in strategic areas, such as nuclear energy, infrastructure and advanced technologies, to deepen their economic ties.

Speaking at a meeting with South Korean residents in Vietnam, Lee described Seoul-Hanoi ties as "very special," citing a close economic partnership, shared history, and strong people-to-people exchanges in culture and sports.

"The two countries are among each other's top three trading partners, and South Korea is Vietnam's largest investor," Lee said during the meeting in Hanoi.

He noted that South Korea and Vietnam have become key partners since upgrading their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2022, expressing hope to further develop relations to a more "future-oriented and strategic level" through his ongoing state visit.

"During my visit, I will meet Vietnam's leaders to broaden cooperation in strategic sectors, including nuclear energy, infrastructure, and science and technology," Lee said. "I will also discuss ways to advance cooperation on global issues, including resilient supply chains, sustainable growth and climate response."

Lee was set to hold summit talks later Wednesday with To Lam, Vietnam's top leader who serves as both state president and general secretary of the Communist Party.

On Thursday, he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Le Minh Hung and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man.

(END)

[ⓒ K-VIBE. 무단전재-재배포 금지]