LONDON — UK Foreign Minister David Lammy is embarking on a key diplomatic mission to deepen security cooperation with South Korea and Indonesia. His visit comes amid heightened tensions in the region and will also address the global shift toward clean energy.
Lammy’s visit to South Korea follows recent allegations by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that North Korea is preparing to send 10,000 soldiers to aid Russia in its war against Ukraine. While NATO chief Mark Rutte has stated there is no current evidence of North Korean involvement, the claim has raised concerns in the U.S. and other NATO nations. Additionally, the Korean peninsula has seen increased instability, with North Korea conducting multiple missile tests this year.
“Our South Korean partners have stood side-by-side with us in defense of Ukraine, while also working to preserve regional stability here on the Korean peninsula,” Lammy said in a statement issued by his office. He highlighted the global interconnectedness of conflicts, particularly with North Korea allegedly supporting Russia while simultaneously threatening regional security with its illegal weapons of mass destruction program.
During his visit, Lammy is expected to visit South Korea’s heavily fortified Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and engage in discussions focused on bolstering defense partnerships.
In Jakarta, Indonesia, Lammy will attend the inauguration of President-elect Prabowo Subianto on Sunday. His visit aims to reinforce security cooperation with Indonesia, a critical partner in Southeast Asia. Both South Korea and Indonesia are part of the G20, and Britain is seeking to deepen ties with these nations to address both regional security concerns and the clean energy transition.
Lammy, who took office after the Labour Party’s landslide victory in July, recently met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, where he promised “consistency” in Britain’s approach to China. He described his meeting as “constructive,” signaling the UK’s efforts to balance diplomacy and security concerns across Asia.
Lammy’s tour underscores Britain’s commitment to engaging with key global players on security and energy issues, as the UK seeks to position itself as a leader in fostering international cooperation in a complex geopolitical landscape.