SEOUL - Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Ma. Theresa Dizon-De Vega met with ASEAN-Korea Centre Secretary General Kim Jae Shin on 24 April 2024 at the Philippine Embassy in Seoul and discussed ways to enhance ASEAN-Republic of Korea cooperation.

Ambassador Dizon-De Vega provided perspectives on strengthening ASEAN-ROK cooperation through functional cooperation on the economic front, especially in addressing challenges in connectivity brought by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. The Ambassador also invited AKC to explore possible cooperation on marine litter management and sustainability through the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity headquartered in Laguna, Philippines. The Ambassador also informed Secretary-General Kim of the numerous initiatives of the Philippine Embassy in Seoul in celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea.

Recognizing the active role of the Ambassador in the ASEAN Committee in Seoul, AKC Secretary General Kim lauded the Philippines' pioneering initiatives in ASEAN-ROK cooperation and looked forward to working closely with the Philippines during his tenure as AKC Secretary General.

A friend of the Philippines, AKC Secretary General Kim holds fond memories of the country when he served as ROK Ambassador in Manila from 2015 to 2017. He was also the deputy foreign minister and a presidential secretary for foreign affairs during the 2008-2013 Lee Myung-bak administration. END