During the meetings a wide range of subjects of mutual interest were discussed including the Ukraine Crisis, further co-operation under the Partners Across The Globe scheme which was formally reviewed in 2019, and security. Political dialogue and practical cooperation continue to be developed across many priority areas, including non-proliferation, cyber defence, counter-terrorism, security-related civil science projects and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) defence, as well as civil preparedness, resilience and disaster relief.
"Visits such as these are critical in enhancing our understanding of co-operative security. I am delighted to have had the opportunity to meet the VCJS and explore many areas where we can potentially operate with each other," said Admiral Ruehle, Chief of Staff SHAPE. "With the current war in Ukraine, our awareness of global security and the many challenges that exist remains paramount, where our enhanced vigilance continues to be vital."
The Korean Vice Chief of the Joint Staffs (VCJS) Lieutenant General Jeong Hwan Park visited SHAPE and had an office call with the SHAPE Chief of Staff Admiral Ruehle DEU N and Deputy Chief of Staff Partnerships Rear Admiral Turan TUR N following attendance at the NATO HQ Military Committee Meeting in Brussels.
From 2010 to 2013, as part of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force, the Republic of Korea led an integrated civilian-military Provincial Reconstruction Team of some 470 personnel in Parwan Province, which helped build the capacity of the provincial government in the areas of health, education, rural development and governance. The Republic of Korea also contributed to the NATO-run Afghan National Army (ANA) Trust Fund a total of USD 319 million. In 2020, the Republic of Korea served as the ANA Trust Fund"s co-chair.
The Alliance and the Republic of Korea are committed to strengthening relations to address shared security challenges such as cyber defence, non-proliferation or counterterrorism. NATO and the Republic of Korea have engaged in dialogue and cooperation since 2005. It is one of several countries often referred to as 'partners across the globe'.
To learn more about NATO's relationship with the Republic of Korea, click here.