President Lee: "Welcome, my eternal comrade, President Lula"

[Financial News] After returning to Cheong Wa Dae, the Blue House, President Lee Jae-myung issued a warm welcome to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the first foreign head of state to pay a state visit to the Republic of Korea (South Korea) under his presidency, calling him "my eternal comrade" and saying he is eager to meet him soon.
On X (formerly Twitter) on Monday morning, President Lee wrote, "Together with all the people of our nation, I warmly welcome the state visit to the Republic of Korea by the esteemed President Lula of Brazil."
Describing President Lula, Lee said, "He started out as a child laborer and proved with his whole life that democracy is the most effective tool for social and economic development."
He went on, "With the destruction of democracy, he briefly walked a thorny path, but together with the great people of Brazil he rose again with strength, and is now bringing about the revival of Brazil. The path that the president has taken, one step ahead of me in life and politics, so closely resembles my own life journey."
Lee continued, "I have no doubt that, with President Lula’s integrity, fierce dedication, indomitable spirit of challenge and courage, Brazil will prosper greatly," adding, "I cheer for President Lula’s life, struggle and achievements, which will be remembered for a long time in the history of world democracy."
He added, "I look forward to seeing you soon. Welcome, my eternal comrade, President Lula."
Lee also posted a Portuguese translation of his message, the official language of Brazil, alongside the original.
President Lee is scheduled to hold a summit meeting with President Lula of Brazil later in the day. This is Lula’s first state visit to South Korea in 21 years, since his first term in office in 2005.
Cheong Wa Dae plans to begin with an official welcome ceremony in the morning, followed by a commemorative photo session, summit talks and a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signing ceremony, after which the two leaders will make a joint press statement. A state banquet and other social events between the leaders will follow, with the heads of the four major business groups in attendance at the national banquet.

cjk@fnnews.com Choi Jong-geun Reporter