President Moon Jae-in and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull had their first telephone conversation at 2:30 this afternoon.

During their 20-minute phone conversation, the two leaders discussed matters of mutual interest, including the direction of future developments in bilateral ties and the North Korean nuclear issue. Notably, they agreed to work together in helping deter the spread of protectionism.

President Moon noted the fact that the effectuation of the Korea-Australia FTA has made it possible for Australian beef and wine to become highly sought-after food products in Korea, and for Korean-made cars and home appliances to see a steady increase in sales in Australia. The President expressed the hope for further cooperation in trade.

President Moon also highlighted the fact that both Australia and Korea are members of MIKTA, a consultative body of five middle powers, and are closely cooperating on various issues on the international stage, including at the United Nations. He went on to express the hope that such collaboration would further increase in the years to come.

Prime Minister Turnbull responded by saying that he has been very interested in President Moon’s agenda championing free trade and countering protectionism. In reply, President Moon said he looked forward to working together to overcome the spread of protectionism and seek ways for further cooperation.

In regard to the North Korean nuclear issue, the two leaders reached an agreement to reinforce strategic communication and collaboration through a “two-plus-two” meeting that will bring together foreign and defense ministers from both countries.

In closing, President Moon and Prime Minister Turnbull invited each other to visit their countries and said that they looked forward to meeting at the G20 Summit scheduled for early July in Germany.