(Yonhap Interview) Mexico committed to FTA talks with S. Korea, eyes more cooperation in AI, space: top diplomat

Seoul, Aug. 26 (Yonhap) -- Mexico is committed to restarting stalled free trade talks with South Korea, according to the country's top diplomat. Mexican Foreign Secretary Roberto Velasco Alvarez stated this during an exclusive interview with Yonhap News Agency in Seoul, as he is on a three-day visit to South Korea that began on Sunday. This visit marked Velasco's first trip to Asia since taking office in April.

Velasco emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with Seoul in various advanced sectors, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), space, and other high-tech areas. The two nations initially began FTA negotiations in 2006, but the discussions stalled in 2008 due to opposition, mainly from some Mexican industries. However, Mexico and South Korea agreed in 2022 to resume negotiations, though formal talks have yet to commence.

The Mexican Foreign Secretary clarified that Mexico is currently focusing on key discussions with the United States regarding tariff issues and the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). While he did not provide a specific timeline for resuming FTA negotiations, he highlighted the significance of bolstering economic ties with partners beyond the U.S. Velasco expressed admiration for South Korea's advancements in science and technology, AI, and space industries, noting that South Korean firms such as Samsung and LG have substantial investments in Mexico.

During his visit, Velasco met with officials from Samsung E&A Co. and other companies to explore potential cooperation in aerospace, space, and other advanced sectors. Additionally, he discussed the possibility of a joint initiative with the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in Mexico. Velasco also highlighted the growing popularity of Korean culture in Mexico and expressed support for initiating a joint education program, including scholarships for educational exchanges.