President Moon Jae-in held a summit with German Chancellor Angela Merkel this afternoon on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in the United Kingdom. The two leaders discussed a wide range of issues, including COVID-19 responses, climate change and recent developments in Northeast Asia, including the Korean Peninsula. 

President Moon and Chancellor Merkel began their talks by commending the achievements from COVID-19 responses in each other’s country. 

Chancellor Merkel extended congratulations and highly praised the Korean economy recovering its pre-COVID-19 levels thanks to the Korean people’s hard work and President Moon’s leadership. 

President Moon replied, “I extend my gratitude and respect to Chancellor Merkel for the way she has resolved problems at home and abroad with strong leadership that has turned numerous crises into opportunities.”

The President went on to say, “Germany, a vaccine development leader, and the Republic of Korea, which has strengths in vaccine production, need to find ways to cooperate. Such cooperation would facilitate global vaccine supply and make it more equitable.” In her reply, Chancellor Merkel promised to consult with German vaccine companies that possess mRNA-related technology. 

President Moon shared the results of discussions on relations with North Korea from the recent ROK-U.S. summit. The President said, “We are actively making efforts to resume dialogue with North Korea so that the peace process on the Korean Peninsula can move forward again.” He asked for continued cooperation and support from Germany.

Chancellor Merkel noted that as she came from the former East Germany, she can sympathize with Koreans about the Peninsula’s division more than anyone else. The Chancellor went on to say that Germany will continue to provide all the cooperation and support available regardless of the outcome of her country’s upcoming federal election. 

President Moon said, “Among the G7 leaders, I have communicated most often with Chancellor Merkel on numerous occasions and have worked closely with her. I once again express my respect and gratitude to Chancellor Merkel for her leadership and contribution to the international community.”