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South Korean President Lee Jae-myung replicates the 'Viking rowing' celebration used by the Norwegian national football team during his remarks at a bilateral summit with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre at a hotel in Ankara, Turkey, on July 8 (local time). / Courtesy of Yonhap News

President Lee Jae-myung held a bilateral summit with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on July 8 (local time) on the sidelines of the NATO summit to discuss ways to expand cooperation between the two nations.

During the 36-minute meeting, President Lee noted, "The current international situation is highly volatile," adding, "In times like these, when individual nations face limits in overcoming such crises alone, international cooperation and exchanges become even more vital."

He continued, "The Republic of Korea and Norway have developed a deep relationship, benefiting each other greatly across the economy, industry, culture, and defense. Let us engage in an in-depth discussion on how to further deepen our ties across various sectors."

Greeting Prime Minister Støre, President Lee said, "This is our second time meeting. South Korea always remembers and deeply appreciates that Norway provided medical support during the Korean War, even before our two nations officially established diplomatic relations."

Prime Minister Støre responded, "It is wonderful to see you again after our meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit last year. I have fond memories of our extensive conversations regarding bilateral relations during last year's dinner. Since then, there has been significant progress in fulfilling the potential between Norway and South Korea."

The Prime Minister also highlighted advancements in bilateral defense cooperation, stating, "Important decisions have been made in our nations' defense sectors, which serve as excellent steps toward developing our strategic partnership. We are continuously moving forward in security, trade, and technology."

His remarks are interpreted as a reference to Hanwha Aerospace's deal signed earlier this year to supply Norway with a full-package system including Chunmoo multiple rocket launchers and guided missiles, valued at $922 million (approximately 1.3 trillion won).

During the summit, President Lee also brought up Norway's advancement to the World Cup quarterfinals and its selection as the preferred bidder for Canada's submarine project with a vessel co-designed with Germany.

"First of all, I must offer my congratulations," President Lee said as the meeting commenced. "Norway has advanced to the World Cup quarterfinals and has been selected for Canada's submarine project."

Prime Minister Støre expressed his delight, saying, "I am thrilled with these national achievements. This is our best World Cup performance since 1998, and we are incredibly pleased to have defeated Brazil in the round of 16."

He added, "We will have to see how our quarterfinal match against England turns out, but I believe it will go well. We have many excellent players, and they are performing remarkably well as a cohesive team."

In response, President Lee remarked, "I watched a video of the Norwegian team after the round of 16, and it was fantastic." He then demonstrated Norway's trademark "Viking rowing" celebration by clenching his fists and mimicking a rowing motion. "I hope to see you row at least one more time," he added, offering his enthusiastic support.

                                                                                                       Park Young-hoon