Overview

• African ambassadors, Korean officials, and business leaders convened in Seoul to map out a robust Korea-Africa partnership focused on shared growth and innovation.
• Moroccan Ambassador Chafik Rachadi emphasized the need for equitable collaboration, leveraging Korea's innovation and Africa's demographics for mutual benefit.
• Kenyan Ambassador Emmy Kipsoi urged Korean companies to establish R&D initiatives in African universities, highlighting Africa's skilled youth and untapped potential.
• The Export-Import Bank of Korea reaffirmed Africa as the second-largest recipient of its EDCF loans, aimed at funding critical infrastructure projects like railways and seaports.
• Discussions highlighted the absence of free trade agreements between Korea and African nations, with calls to introduce GSP schemes to enhance market access and trade equity.