South Korean President Park Geun-hye on Friday called for expanding economic ties with Saudi Arabia, saying the two countries should seek exchanges in new areas such as health, ICT and renewable energy.
Park made the remarks in a meeting with Muhammed Al-Jasser, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Economy and Planning, and other top economic officials from the Middle Eastern nation, Yonhap said quoting Seoul's presidential office.
The Saudi delegation is currently in Seoul to attend a joint business forum.
"Until now, our countries have cooperated closely in the energy and construction sectors, but I hope (the two countries) will seek ways to further expand cooperation in various areas, such as health and medical services, ICT, human resources development and especially in renewable energy, including nuclear power," Park said, according to her office.
Park also expressed hope that the two countries would open a "new horizen" for bilateral cooperation through various exchanges, including her planned meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at the upcoming summit of the Group of 20 advanced economies in Brisbane, Australia, on Nov. 15-16.
Park said she is also planning a visit to the Middle Eastern nation next year.
The Saudi minister praised South Korea for its achievements, saying the country has set an example that many would like to follow.