By French Ambassador to Korea Philippe Bertoux

Relations between France and Korea have reached a turning point as both nations have formed stable ties. At bilateral summits last year on June 20 this year and Nov. 24, the leaders of the two countries discussed major issues such as national security on the Korean Peninsula and its effects, strengthened cooperation between Russia and North Korea and its influence on the war in Ukraine, and Seoul's national security interests. These issues are what Korea and France have jointly worked on, especially after Korea on Jan. 1 began its term as a non-permanent member of United Nations Security Council.

Bilateral cooperation in economy and industry is also important. Trade between the two countries marked a record-high EUR 16 billion last year. France is a global power in politics, military and culture and has taken the lead in all innovative sectors such as transportation, decarbonization, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum computing, cybersecurity and space. So bilateral cooperation and cross-investment have infinite potential.

Presidents Macron and Yoon are both actively taking action on global issues. France has suggested cooperation to combat global warming and actions toward decarbonization and forest preservation, and is also quite interested in Korea's carbon-free energy initiatives. The Indo-Pacific strategies of the two sides also have much in common for fulfilling promising joint projects.

Bilateral projects in culture are underway, starting with the launch last year of the France-Korea film academy and the openings of Busan Artist Residency this year and Hanwha Pompidour Center in Seoul next year. More French youths are visiting Korea to study or work given their fascination with Korean music, dramas and culture. Similarly, 2,300 Koreans go to study in France every year and boost their alumni networks in both countries.

Looking ahead to events to commemorate the 140th anniversary of ties between the two countries, I as the French ambassador to Korea will boost bilateral cooperation so that both nations can jointly respond to 21st-century challenges such as national security, economy, climate and health.

I look forward to the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics and Paralympics held in Paris, the French mainland and its overseas territories and hope that the two countries win an abundance of medals.

Ambassador Bertoux assumed his post on July 18 last year.

Translated by Korea.net staff writer Lee Jihae