**Remarks at the G7 Expanded Session; Handshake with Zelensky**
President Lee Jae-myung attended the G7 Summit’s expanded session, which included a working luncheon, on June 17 (local time) in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada, to discuss “The Future of Energy Security.” During this session, President Lee presented South Korea’s energy-related policies.
In two separate remarks, President Lee emphasized the importance of achieving energy security and stabilizing the supply chain for critical minerals for global economic growth and prosperity. He expressed South Korea’s active participation in international solidarity and cooperation to achieve these goals, as stated in a press release by the presidential office.
He remarked on the surging electricity demand driven by AI technology advancements and noted that energy supply chains are threatened by climate change and geopolitical instability. President Lee advocated for the establishment of a stable, economical, and reliable energy system to ensure energy security.
He proposed reinforcing energy security by developing a robust renewable energy industry ecosystem, establishing efficient energy infrastructure akin to an “energy highway,” and building a reliable energy system resilient to cyberattacks.
Additionally, President Lee explained the significance of supply chains for critical minerals necessary for an eco-friendly energy ecosystem. He pointed out South Korea’s contributions to stabilizing the supply of critical minerals through its role as the chair nation of the “Mineral Security Partnership (MSP).” He pledged to strengthen bilateral and multilateral cooperation with G7 member countries and countries possessing critical minerals.
President Lee also addressed international challenges related to AI technology advancements. He highlighted the need for a stable global AI ecosystem and mentioned South Korea’s proactive contributions to stabilizing the AI semiconductor supply chain through international cooperation. He emphasized efforts to improve energy efficiency by developing low-power AI semiconductors (NPUs) and securing energy supply chains crucial for the AI industry.
Furthermore, recognizing the significant role of the private sector in AI innovation, President Lee outlined intentions to promote private sector participation through bold tax incentives, regulatory reforms, and the establishment of a national fund to drive a nationwide AI transformation. He aimed to establish South Korea as the leading “AI hub” in the Asia-Pacific region.
Before the expanded session, President Lee participated in a commemorative photo session with invited countries of the G7. During this event, he was photographed shaking hands with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.