South Korea Hosts 10th Global ICT Leadership Forum with African Ministers in Seoul

South Korea is currently hosting the 10th Global ICT Leadership Forum at the Conrad Hotel in Yeouido, Seoul, on June 5, 2024. This event is held in conjunction with the Korea-Africa Summit, which has brought together delegations from 48 African countries, including 25 heads of state.

Why this matters: The strengthening of digital cooperation between South Korea and African nations has significant implications for global development and economic growth. The outcomes of this forum and summit are expected to pave the way for enhanced cooperation and shared growth between South Korea and African countries, potentially leading to improved digital infrastructure and economic opportunities in the region.

The forum aims to strengthen digital cooperation between South Korea and African nations. Thirteen African ICT ministers, including Savannah Maziya from Eswatini, are participating in discussions on digital policies and strategies for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through digital transformation technologies.

The theme of this year’s forum is 'Strengthening Korea-Africa Solidarity through Digital Innovation.' The discussions are focused on how ICT can shape industries and societies, particularly in education and healthcare. The ministers are exploring avenues for collaboration, identifying challenges and opportunities, and paving the way for a mutually beneficial partnership.

South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol and Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould El-Ghazouani, who is co-chairing the summit, are among the notable attendees. The summit’s overarching theme is 'The Future We Make Together: Shared Growth, Sustainability & Solidarity,' aiming to address global development challenges and align efforts with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia highlighted the historical ties between Africa and Korea, dating back to the Korean War. He emphasized the need for Africa and Korea to align priorities to address development and security shortfalls. *'Ethiopia emerged as a significant ally to Korea, contributing the Kagnew Infantry Battalion to protect freedom of the Korean Peninsula during the war,'* he stated.

In addition to the ICT Leadership Forum, Commerce Industry and Trade Minister Manqoba Khumalo is attending the Korea-Africa Business Forum, which aims to promote business cooperation between South Korea and African countries. This highlights the multifaceted approach South Korea is taking to strengthen its ties with the African continent.

The Korea-Africa Summit, running from June 3-6, 2024, includes various events such as foreign ministers' talks and a series of summits with African leaders. Enhanced security measures have been implemented at Gimpo International Airport to ensure the safety of the delegations.

The summit also features cultural events, including the Seoul Friendship Festival, which celebrates the cultures of 70 countries, and a downtown festival in Seoul that showcases Africa's appeal. These events aim to promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding between South Korea and African nations.

The 10th Global ICT Leadership Forum and the Korea-Africa Summit continue, with the focus remaining on building a collaborative future through digital innovation and strengthened partnerships. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to pave the way for enhanced cooperation and shared growth between South Korea and African countries.

Key Takeaways

• South Korea hosts 10th Global ICT Leadership Forum and Korea-Africa Summit.
• 48 African countries, 25 heads of state, and 13 ICT ministers attend.
• Forum focuses on digital cooperation, SDGs, and digital transformation.
• Summit aims to address global development challenges and align with AU's Agenda 2063.
• Outcomes expected to enhance cooperation and shared growth between South Korea and Africa.