Analyzing the historic Seoul Summit between PM Giorgia Meloni and President Lee Jae Myung, marking a new era of cooperation in AI, Critical Minerals, and Defense.
Historic Summit: Jan 19, 2026
On January 19, 2026, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni held summit talks with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at the Blue House.
Marking the first visit by an Italian leader in 19 years, the summit focused on cementing a strategic alliance in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Semiconductors, and Critical Mineral Supply Chains.
Summit Outcomes & Pillars
The 2026 Summit identified three core areas for intensified cooperation, moving beyond traditional trade into high-tech security and resilience.
Cooperation Intensity Index (2026)
Relative strength of bilateral engagement by sector
Priority Agreements
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🧠
AI & Semiconductors MOU signed for chip industry cooperation and joint AI research.
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⛏️
Critical Minerals Joint effort to develop resilient, reliable supply chains.
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🚀
Aerospace Expanded collaboration in space and defense tech.
Economic Foundation
Italy stands as South Korea's 4th largest trading partner in the EU. The economic relationship is evolving from luxury goods to advanced technology exchanges.
Bilateral Trade Evolution
Total volume in Billions USD
Key Exchange Sectors
Primary goods categories
Shared History
1884
Establishment of diplomatic relations: Treaty of Friendship and Commerce.
1951-1955
Korean War: Italy dispatches the 68th Red Cross Field Hospital, treating 200,000+ patients.
Jan 19, 2026
Summit in Seoul: PM Meloni & Pres. Lee Jae Myung agree on AI, Chips & Critical Minerals.