By Na Jeong-ju
Korea Times correspondent
PANAMA CITY ― President Lee Myung-bak held a series of bilateral talks with the leaders of five South American countries, Tuesday (local time), on the sidelines of a summit between Korea and the Central American Integration System (SICA), an eight-member economic bloc.
The talks largely focused on expanding the economic ties between the two countries and strengthening safety measures for Korean residents there.
Lee also called for more business opportunities for Korean firms operating in the region, while pledging to address the economic needs of each country, Cheong Wa Dae said.
In a summit with Guatemalan President Alvaro Colom, Lee asked for consistent efforts to resolve the growing problem of crimes against South Koreans living there.
More than 10,000 Koreans live in Guatemala, the largest number among the Central American nations.
Colom promised to step up efforts to protect Korean nationals and firms, expressing his gratitude for their contribution to Guatemala's economic development, according to the presidential office.
While meeting with Honduran President Porfirio Lobo, Lee raised the issue of a 27-year-old Korean woman, Han Ji-soo, who is accused of being involved in a murder case.
Han, a diving instructor, has been indicted as an accomplice in connection with the 2008 killing of a Dutch backpacker in Honduras.
She was arrested by Interpol in August 2009 in Egypt on her way back to Korea. She is awaiting trial after being released on bail in December, while claiming her innocence.
"Lamenting that a young Korean woman is on a trial in Honduras, Lee called for special attention from the government to the issue of a speedy and fair trial," a Cheong Wa Dae spokesman said.
Lee and El Salvador's President Mauricio Funes agreed to expand the partnership in trade, investment, infrastructure and energy fields.
In talks with Costa Rica's President Laura Chinchilla, Lee noted the country's active campaign for "green" growth. The leaders agreed on closer cooperation with regard to environmental issues on the global stage.
Earlier in the day, Lee met with Dominican Republic Vice President Rafael Alburquerque and asked for interest and support for Korean companies there.
On Wednesday, Lee arrived in Mexico, the final leg of his weeklong trip, for a summit with Mexican President Felipe Calderon on bolstering economic ties. He is scheduled to return to Seoul Saturday.