South Korea and Latvia Agree to Expand Defense Cooperation in Drones and Anti-Drone Systems

South Korea and Latvia agreed to advance cooperation in drones and anti-drone systems during a meeting in Seoul on April 29, 2026. Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back hosted Daiga Mierina, speaker of the Latvian parliament, at the defense ministry. The two sides committed to developing these partnerships in a future-oriented and mutually beneficial way, Yonhap reported.

Ahn expressed hope for expanding the defense industry partnership between the two nations. He highlighted South Korea's advanced defense technology along with its stable production and military logistics support capabilities. The meeting underscored shared understanding that such collaboration could foster industry partnerships and stabilize supply chains.

The officials agreed to continue strengthening strategic communication to ensure peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in Europe. They acknowledged growing uncertainties in the international security landscape as a key factor. Daiga Mierina serves as speaker of the Saeima, Latvia's parliament.

Ahn and Mierina posed together during their session at the defense ministry in Seoul. The encounter took place on Wednesday, April 29, 2026. Seoul's defense ministry described the talks as an opportunity to build on mutual interests in defense technologies.

"They agreed to work together to further develop bilateral cooperation in these areas in a future-oriented and mutually beneficial manner," the ministry said in a release.