By Reporter Lee jon young  

President Yoon Suk-yeol had a meeting with Xavier Bettel, the Prime Minister of Luxembourg, exchanging views on the development of bilateral relations, enhancing substantial cooperation, and discussing the international situation on July 25.

The President welcomed Prime Minister Bettel's visit to Korea during the meaningful year of the 70th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice. He expressed gratitude for Luxembourg's historical contribution as the only foreign combat unit dispatched to the Korean War, safeguarding South Korea's freedom and democracy.

Both leaders agreed to expand trade and investment and strengthen cooperation in the fields of space and quantum science and technology. When Prime Minister Bettel mentioned that Luxembourg is preparing to open its embassy in Korea within this year, President Yoon expressed his anticipation for closer communication between the two countries with the opening of the embassy.

President Yoon emphasized the need for the international community to unite in response to the escalating nuclear and missile threats from North Korea. Prime Minister Bettel expressed his agreement and pledged to cooperate in addressing the issue. Additionally, he highlighted the significance of President Yoon's recent visit to Ukraine and urged for continued solidarity and support for Ukraine.

Prior to the meeting with Luxembourg's Prime Minister, President Yoon also had a talk with Korean War veteran Léon Moyen, who survived the war and fought in Korea.

During the conversation, President Yoon mentioned how Léon Moyen, the veteran, had sustained a serious leg injury during the Korean War and was sent to a hospital in Japan before returning to Korea to fight again. The President commended the bravery of Léon Moyen, who dedicated himself to safeguarding the freedom of a distant foreign country, and stated that the people of South Korea will never forget his courage.

Léon Moyen expressed that he had wanted to come back to Korea sooner and mentioned that if it were not for the COVID-19 pandemic, he could have come with some of his fellow veterans who have unfortunately passed away recently.