South Korea, Qatar Ink Initial Defense Cooperation Agreement

South Korea and Qatar have solidified their commitment to enhanced defense collaboration through the signing of an initial agreement during talks between their defense chiefs.

Defense Minister Shin Won-sik signed the memorandum of understanding (MOU) during his meeting with Qatar's Deputy Prime Minister Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah in Doha. This move aligns with South Korea's efforts to boost arms exports to the Middle East.

Under the MOU, the nations plan to hold regular defense ministerial talks and establish an institutional foundation for defense cooperation. They also aim to strengthen collaboration across various defense sectors, including increased exchanges between defense-related institutes and expanded joint military exercises.

Minister Shin's visit follows President Yoon Suk Yeol's state visit to Qatar last October, where relations were elevated to a "comprehensive strategic partnership" on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations.

During the visit, Shin paid a courtesy call on Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, pledging to further develop defense ties. The day also included Shin attending South Korea's football match against Jordan in the Asian Football Confederation Asian Cup semifinals in Qatar, as an invitee of the Qatari Emir.

This signing marked the conclusion of Defense Minister Shin's three-nation Middle East swing, which also included visits to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, highlighting South Korea's commitment to expanding strategic partnerships in the region.