Doha: South Korean President Lee Jae-Myung agreed during a phone call with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to deepen cooperation in the economy, defense, technology, and other fields between the two countries.

According to Qatar News Agency, a statement issued by the Korean presidential office said that during their call, the two sides emphasized the need to elevate bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership within the year and agreed to maintain close communication.

The statement added that the two sides pledged to cooperate to successfully host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea later this year, and to explore concrete ways to further strengthen bilateral relations.