Finance minister discusses economic ties, cooperation with U.S. ambassador

Finance Minister Lee Hyoung-il met with U.S. Ambassador Michelle Steel in Seoul on Monday to explore avenues for enhancing bilateral economic cooperation, the Ministry of Finance and Economy announced. During the meeting, Lee highlighted how the South Korea-U.S. relationship has evolved from a security alliance to one encompassing economic domains like advanced industries, energy, and supply chains over the past seven decades, as per the finance ministry.

He expressed optimism that Steel, a native of Seoul, could facilitate stronger connections between the two nations and broaden economic collaboration, leveraging her intimate knowledge of both countries. Lee also requested Steel to aid in improving communication to address any trade disputes. Both parties concurred that the allies should intensify economic cooperation to further fortify the Seoul-Washington alliance.