South Korea and Kazakhstan have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) focused on the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Their leaders met to discuss enhanced cooperation in trade, energy, critical minerals, and artificial intelligence amid global economic challenges. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung highlighted Kazakhstan’s potential in high-tech industries, emphasizing its role as a vital partner for South Korea.
Tuesday’s MoU was part of 13 agreements, including those addressing crude oil and scientific collaboration. Lee is set to host Tokayev and leaders from four other Central Asian nations for a summit aimed at strengthening ties.
Since launching the New Northern Policy in 2017, Seoul has aimed to bolster ties with Central Asia as it seeks to diversify its energy and mineral supplies. Prime Minister Han Seong-sook has urged businesses to explore opportunities beyond traditional commodities, advocating for the use of South Korean technology in mining Kazakhstan’s abundant resources to mitigate uncertainties in global supply chains.
