Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of the Republic of Korea, Yu Myung-hwan held a bilateral meeting with Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs Carl Bildt on February 27. The two Ministers had an in-depth discussion on the increase in substantive cooperation, revitalization of high-level officials’ exchange and increase in science technology cooperation.

The two Ministers expressed satisfaction with the development of bilateral relations in a variety of areas including economy, trade, education, culture and science since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1959. They agreed to further strengthen the relations between Korea and Sweden and to work together for a success of commemorative events for the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

In particular, Minister Yu requested an active role of Sweden, the chair of EU for the second half of this year, for an early conclusion of Korea-EU FTA, smooth discussion on the revision of the Korea-EU Framework Agreement and overall development of Korea-EU relations. In response, Minister Bildt stressed the importance of the negotiation for the revised Korea-EU Framework Agreement and pledged concerted efforts to this end.

Moreover, the two Ministers exchanged views on the political situation in the Korean Peninsula, Northeast Asia, the Balkan Peninsula and the Middle East and agreed to cooperate in the international issues, such as the global financial crisis, climate change and energy security.