India, South Korea discuss ways to strengthen ties

SKOREA-INDIA

Seoul, Sep 4 (PTI) India and South Korea on Saturday
explored ways to strengthen bilateral ties which have taken a
"sharp upward trajectory" and discussed issues like
anti-piracy and disaster relief.
Defence Minister of India, A K Antony, who is on a
two-day visit here, called on South Korean President Lee
Myung-bak and the two leaders expressed satisfaction over the
"sharp upward trajectory" that the relations had taken in the
recent times, Defence Ministry spokesperson Sitanshu Kar said.
"The two leaders discussed all issues relating to
strengthening of relationship between the two countries. They
expressed satisfaction at the sharp upward trajectory that the
relationship has taken," he said in a statement here.
The ramping up of the ties between the two countries
follows the visit of the South Korean President to India in
January this year.
During that visit, it was decided to elevate the
bilateral relationship to a "strategic partnership" level
encompassing defence, trade and scientific research.
The two leaders noted that India and South Korea "shared
common values and understanding" on issues of regional and
global security.
Antony also held talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs
and Trade Yu Myung-hwan and expressed satisfaction at the
close cooperation and shared visions of the two countries.
"They exchanged views on anti-piracy, disaster relief and
other areas of mutual interest," Kar said.
Antony and his counterpart Kim Tae-Young signed two
Memoranda of Understanding for a five-year defence cooperation
for sharing of military expertise and technology, which can be
extended by another five years if the two sides so desired.
PTI NCB
AHM


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