President Lee Meets Canadian Prime Minister Ahead of $60 Billion Submarine Decision

President Lee Jae-myung attended the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, on June 16, where he held a bilateral meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

After attending the expanded G7 session, President Lee remarked, "There is much for our two countries to cooperate on."

The two nations are increasing their engagement as they approach the final selection for Canada's next-generation submarine program, valued at 60 trillion won.

President Lee emphasized the deep ties between Canada and South Korea, stating, "Since the Korean War, we have had a profound relationship. We have received significant support, and now, as like-minded countries, our relationship is developing into one that is mutually beneficial."

Prime Minister Carney noted that the partnership between the two countries has continued to grow since their last meeting, stating, "We have strengthened cooperation in various fields, including defense, investment, and culture."

The two leaders previously met during the APEC summit in Gyeongju last October.

In their public remarks, there was no direct mention of the submarine program.

Currently, South Korea is competing with Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) for the contract to build the submarines, with the announcement of the contractor expected by the end of June.