Lee discusses defense, nuclear energy cooperation with Romanian president over phone

President Lee Jae Myung holds his first phone talks with Romanian President Nicusor Dan at the presidential office in Seoul, Thursday. Courtesy of Lee's office

President Lee Jae Myung spoke by phone for the first time with Romanian President Nicusor Dan on Thursday and discussed ways to boost cooperation in the defense industry, nuclear energy and other areas, the presidential office said.

Lee said it is meaningful that Korea's exports of the Shingung surface-to-air missile system and K9 self-propelled howitzers to Romania have contributed to strengthening Romania's defense capabilities, voicing hopes that Korean companies will continue to play a role in that regard, presidential spokesperson Kim Nam-joon said in a written briefing.

Lee asked for Romania's continued interest in allowing Korean companies to take part in its upcoming nuclear power projects.

Dan, in turn, lauded the technological strength and reliability of Korea's defense industry and expressed hope that the two countries will work together to further enhance defense cooperation.

The two leaders also agreed to continue exploring ways for cooperation in port and infrastructure development, as well as for people-to-people exchanges and cultural cooperation.