격동하는 국제 질서의 중심에 선 대한민국: 이탈리아와의 동행과 미·이란의 긴장 완화 > 뉴스

President Lee Jae-myung's state visit to Italy elevated the relationship between the two countries to a 'special strategic partnership' and signaled the dawn of a new economic and security era. The two countries adopted a 'strategic action plan' that will last from 2026 to 2030, and went beyond simple friendly relations to establish a cooperation system at the level of a practical alliance that encompasses advanced technology, defense industry, and the social and solidarity economy. In particular, it is very encouraging that Korea has participated as an official partner in Italy's African development strategy, the 'Matei Plan'. This will create synergy with the projects of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and become the basis for building infrastructure and driving sustainable growth in the African region. The two countries agreed to operate a regular consultative body in the field of future food, such as exchange of small and medium-sized enterprise systems, artificial intelligence, and space technology.

Another key point of this trip is to expand Korea's diplomatic influence through the G7 partnership. As a member of the 'Coalition for Consensus', Italy has decided to work together with Korea to reform the UN Security Council, reflecting Korea's will to participate more proactively in setting global norms. The Blue House emphasized that the main focus of this European tour was to thoroughly strengthen relationships with European countries, and paid attention to the value and status of the European Union (EU) in the changing trade order. The Korea-EU joint statement condemning the illegal military cooperation between Russia and North Korea is a public declaration of the basic principles that Korea pursues, and will serve as a solid diplomatic coordinate for Korea in easing tensions with North Korea or establishing relations with neighboring countries in the future.

The situation in the Middle East is also facing a major inflection point starting with the G7 summit. The United States and Iran are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in Geneva, Switzerland, as early as the 14th, which is expected to be a clue to resolving years of maritime blockade and tensions. According to reports from major foreign media, the two countries are pursuing a phased agreement that aims to open the Strait of Hormuz and end the U.S. maritime blockade, which will serve as a kind of roadmap to reach a final peace agreement. In particular, the fact that U.S. President Trump hinted at the possibility of an agreement by mentioning Iran's cancellation of air strikes suggests that behind-the-scenes contacts between the two countries have progressed to a significant level, and as specific logistics circumstances, such as the movement of a U.S. Air Force transport plane to Europe, have been identified, confidence in holding the signing ceremony is further increasing.

However, behind these diplomatic achievements, there are variables that still require caution. The key uncertainty in the agreement between the United States and Iran remains whether or not it will be finally approved by Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, and as there have been many cases in the past where the agreement broke down right before the agreement, the international community remains vigilant until the last moment. Meanwhile, the Korean President's Office is also taking a cautious stance on the possibility of a bilateral meeting with the United States during the G7 summit, emphasizing the original purpose of the European trip. This is a strategic statement that takes into account the short schedule and variable international situation, and shows Korea's flexible attitude to maximize national interests through a multifaceted diplomatic network rather than being confined to a specific power.