France, Korea to deepen strategic solidarity, envoy says on Bastille Day

France and South Korea announced plans to deepen their strategic solidarity amid escalating regional tensions, according to French Ambassador to South Korea Philippe Bertoux, who made the remarks during a Bastille Day reception in Seoul on Tuesday. The comments came as the two nations commemorate the 140th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, marking a pivotal moment in their evolving relationship. Bertoux emphasized that the growing interdependence between France and South Korea extends beyond traditional areas of cooperation such as trade and diplomacy into critical domains like military security, maritime corridors, and emerging technologies. He pointed to the ongoing conflict involving Russia and North Korea's support for Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine as a clear example of how their security interests are increasingly aligned. “The Russian-North Korean war of aggression against Ukraine is a tragic illustration of this,” Bertoux stated. The ambassador also highlighted concerns over the disruption of key maritime routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, which remains heavily affected by renewed hostilities between the United States and Iran. Despite the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, signed in June to resume commercial traffic through the strait, attacks on commercial vessels continue to hinder stability. Bertoux noted that France and South Korea are collaborating to restore normalcy in these vital supply lines. In addition to security matters, Bertoux outlined expanding collaboration in strategic technologies and global challenges. He mentioned initiatives related to artificial intelligence, space exploration, quantum computing, and environmental protection. “On major challenges such as artificial intelligence, space, quantum technology and decarbonization; on protecting our shared assets, the oceans, the climate and biodiversity; and on strengthening exchanges between our peoples, particularly amongst our young people, we are working hand in hand,” he said. The remarks were delivered during a period of heightened diplomatic activity, with multiple high-level meetings scheduled between French and South Korean officials. The year 2026 is described by Bertoux as especially significant, with a series of presidential-level engagements planned over the coming months. These include President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to South Korea in April, which marked the beginning of a trio of summits intended to solidify their partnership. During Macron’s visit, France and South Korea upgraded their existing Comprehensive Partnership for the 21st Century to a Global Strategic Partnership. This long-awaited move, spanning 22 years, outlines new priorities for cooperation in areas such as cybersecurity, semiconductors, and critical minerals. The agreement reflects a broader alignment of interests in addressing both immediate and long-term challenges facing the international community. President Lee Jae Myung and Macron also met again during the Group of Seven summit in Evian-les-Bains, where South Korea participated as an invited partner. The discussions underscored the importance of multilateralism and reinforced the commitment of both nations to work together on pressing global issues. Bertoux also drew attention to the historical foundations of the Franco-Korean relationship, tracing it back to the arrival of French missionaries and the signing of the foundational treaty on June 4, 1886. He acknowledged France’s support for Korean independence movements during Japan’s colonial rule and the contributions of the French United Nations Battalion during the Korean War. Additionally, he highlighted past achievements in economic cooperation, including advancements in nuclear energy and railway infrastructure. “The partnership remains rooted in a shared history,” Bertoux said, adding that today’s efforts aim to shape the future of their respective security, economies, and societies. The continued dialogue between leaders signals a deepening commitment to mutual prosperity and stability in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.