President Lee Jae-myung and Prime Minister Narendra Modi Discuss Strengthening Ties at G7 Summit

On June 17, 2025, during the G7 summit in Canmore, Alberta, President Lee Jae-myung of South Korea held a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The discussion began with President Lee expressing condolences for a recent aviation accident. He noted that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the 'Special Strategic Partnership' between India and South Korea, emphasizing the need to deepen strategic cooperation and elevate bilateral relations to new heights. Prime Minister Modi agreed, highlighting the importance of expanding mutual collaboration between the two nations.

President Lee expressed his satisfaction with the investment of over 550 South Korean companies in India, contributing to the growth of Indian manufacturing and boosting domestic consumption and exports. He proposed enhancing high-level communication and advancing strategic cooperation in areas such as economic collaboration, core technologies, defense, and culture.

Both leaders acknowledged the significance of human and cultural exchanges between South Korea and India, agreeing to further develop these interactions in the future. Prime Minister Modi also invited President Lee to visit India soon.

During their conversation, they shared a common background of rising from socio-economically challenging circumstances to become leaders of their respective countries. Modi reminisced about his visit to South Korea 25 years ago, while President Lee expressed his fondness for Indian cinema. Modi also mentioned the historical connection between King Kim Suro of Gaya and Princess Heo Hwang-ok from Ayutthaya, India, who married him over 2,000 years ago, referencing the Heo family name in Gimhae.