S Korean president, U.S. governor discuss Seoul-Washington free trade deal, alliance

South Korean President Lee Myung-bak met with a visiting U.S. governor Wednesday to discuss economic cooperation, the Seoul-Washington alliance and a bilateral trade accord between the two countries.

Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley, in Seoul as part of his 10- day Asian trade mission, signed Tuesday a memorandum of understanding with the economy ministry here on expanding bilateral trade and investment and enhancing cooperation in the biotechnology industry.

Noting the governor's visit would build closer business ties between South Korea and Maryland, the president also asked for his support for U.S. Congressional endorsement of the two-way free trade agreement between Seoul and Washington, according to Lee's office.

O'Malley, a Democrat, has publicly announced his support for the trade deal, which still awaits legislative approval in both countries after it was signed in 2007.

Lee also noted Seoul and Washington are working closely on many global issues, commenting that the relations are more "solid" than ever, according to his office.

Source: Xinhua

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