(3rd LD) S. Korea, Mexico adopt joint action plan to expand cooperation in defense, crude oil, AI

South Korea and Mexico have signed a joint action plan to bolster their bilateral cooperation in defense, crude oil, artificial intelligence, and other strategic industries. This agreement, dubbed the Korea-Mexico Joint Action Plan 2026-2030, was announced by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum during a summit in Mexico City. The plan aims to deepen connections between the countries' priority sectors, foster economic ties, and enhance military cooperation.

The action plan emphasizes expanding cooperation in advanced technologies, including AI, digital technology, aerospace, and defense. Both countries will work towards having the agreement take effect promptly by completing necessary procedures, including formal signing and parliamentary ratification.

Additionally, the leaders signed a revised Bilateral Investment Treaty to facilitate increased bilateral trade and investment. They also agreed to establish a communication channel for discussing supply chain cooperation, particularly in crude oil and critical natural resources.

The summit saw the signing of 17 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) and other documents, covering various areas such as economy, defense, aerospace, and AI. During the visit, President Lee Jae Myung paid respects to fallen Mexican heroes at the Altar a la Patria in Chapultepec Park, a national monument honoring Mexico's national defenders and military heroes.