SEOUL, March 02 (AJP) - The Embassy of India in the Republic of Korea, in collaboration with the Sejong Institute and the Asia Foundation, hosted a conference titled "Bridging the Future: Exploring New Horizons in Korea-India Relations" at the Sejong Institute Conference Room in central Seoul on Feb. 27. The event brought together around 60 government officials, scholars, media representatives, and business leaders to discuss key aspects of the India-Korea partnership.
Ambassador of India to South Korea Amit Kumar, Sejong Institute Chairman Yong-Joon Lee, and Deputy Minister for Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kim Hee-sang attended the event. In his welcome remarks, Chairman Lee underscored India's role as a key partner for South Korea in promoting peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Ambassador Kumar highlighted the growing importance of the India-South Korea Special Strategic Partnership in light of shifting geopolitical dynamics, noting the deepening bilateral ties and emerging areas of cooperation. Deputy Minister Kim emphasized the significance of Korea-India relations amid evolving global challenges.
The conference featured four sessions covering diverse topics: India and South Korea’s role in the changing global order, building resilient supply chains, maritime security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, and collaboration in emerging technologies. Panelists from both countries shared insights on economic partnerships, security cooperation, and technological advancements.
In his remarks, Ambassador Kumar addressed the broader geopolitical landscape, stating, "We are today undeniably in an era of significant flux in global geopolitics and geo-economics. The developments in Afghanistan, the Covid-19 pandemic, conflict in Ukraine and in the Middle East amidst greater strategic contestation between major powers have all strained the global architecture." He added that these disruptions have impacted supply chains, food security, and energy resources, disproportionately affecting developing nations.
Highlighting India’s economic growth and increasing role in global trade, Kumar said, "India with its rapid economic growth trajectory with an annual average rate of 7 percent post-Covid is today well poised to become an integral hub for global supply chains." He pointed to major economic shifts, including India's focus on manufacturing, digital transformation, and infrastructure upgrades. He also noted key developments such as the Korea Investment Corporation opening an office in India, Hyundai Motor Group’s first overseas stock listing in India, and POSCO’s joint venture with JSW to establish a large-scale steel plant.
Discussing security cooperation, Kumar stressed India’s contributions to maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in response to regional crises. "For more than a year now, India has also been contributing to maritime security through deployment of naval forces in response to attacks on shipping lines in the Red Sea," he said. He also highlighted India’s role in disaster relief efforts and crisis response across the Indian Ocean region, mentioning operations in Yemen, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, and Nepal.
On strengthening Indo-Pacific security partnerships, Kumar noted, "It is essential that we develop greater maritime domain awareness," emphasizing India's efforts in linking regional maritime security centers and training naval forces in multiple countries. He encouraged South Korea to consider joining regional security initiatives such as the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
The conference concluded with active discussions on expanding economic ties, technological collaboration, and strengthening regional security frameworks. Participants engaged in Q&A sessions, exchanging perspectives on future opportunities for bilateral cooperation.
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
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