President Lee Jae Myung of South Korea met with Indonesian leader Prabowo Subianto in Seoul on Wednesday. The two heads of state agreed to intensify their cooperation in critical minerals, technology, and clean energy, as announced by the Blue House, the South Korean presidential residence.
The leaders met after an official welcome ceremony at the Blue House, followed by a summit. They then oversaw the signing of several agreements before a working lunch, according to the presidential schedule.
The Indonesian president is also set to participate in a business forum in Seoul later on Wednesday as part of his state visit, the statement added.
The agreements reached also include support for projects in renewable energy and data centers, as the two nations elevate their relationship to a strategic partnership.
No agreements were announced regarding defense cooperation, particularly on the joint development project of the South Korean KF-21 fighter jet.
Last month, Korea Aerospace Industries stated that they were in talks with Indonesia for a potential sale of KF-21, clarifying that no decision had been made. According to some press reports, Jakarta is considering the purchase of an initial batch of 16 aircraft.
South Korea expects Indonesia to finalize a payment for the joint development program by the end of the year, a Reuters source revealed.
The two countries are also expected to advance their defense ties and enhance their collaboration in new growth sectors such as artificial intelligence, infrastructure, shipbuilding, nuclear industry, energy conversion, and cultural industries, as previously mentioned by the Blue House in a statement.
During this state visit, Lee is also expected to present Prabowo with the highest civilian honor in South Korea, the Grand Order of Mugunghwa.
