By Reporter Anna Kim  

Jeollanam-do signed a letter of intent for friendly exchange with Silesian Voivodeship, the largest industrial region in Poland, in the provincial office guest room, and pledged to strengthen cooperation in various fields such as economy, tourism, and culture on July 21.

Governor Kim Young-rok met with Prime Minister Jakub Heuvelstovsky of Silesian Voivodeship to discuss the direction of development between Jeollanam-do and Silesian Voivodeship. This letter of intent was prepared to establish a foundation for exchange and cooperation between the local governments of the two countries, on the occasion of President Yoon Suk-yeol's official state visit to Poland.

During the signing ceremony, which included introductions of both regions, and an exchange of gifts, they also discussed cooperation measures for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP33), which Jeollanam-do is seeking to host. Silesian Voivodeship successfully hosted the COP24 in 2018, declaring a transition to an eco-friendly digital city and leading Poland's energy new industry.

Prime Minister Heuvelstovsky stated, "The economic exchange between our two countries is rapidly expanding beyond the traditional defense and nuclear industries into advanced industries such as eco-friendly energy, hydrogen, batteries, etc. Jeollanam-do, which is at the center of cutting-edge strategic industries such as secondary batteries, bio, and data, as well as an international energy new industry hub, is drawing attention. I hope to closely cooperate with Jeollanam-do to create a shared future and opportunities for mutual prosperity."

Governor Kim Young-rok said, "Poland serves as the gateway to the huge economic market of the European Union (EU), and currently about 350 Korean companies have entered the market there. Through economic cooperation with Silesian Voivodeship, a key industrial hub in Poland, we will secure a stepping stone for the future European market entry of Jeollanam-do companies and expand export opportunities."

Silesian Voivodeship is located in the southern part of Poland, with a population of 4.47 million, bordering the Czech Republic. Excluding the Warsaw region, it accounts for 11.7% of the total GDP, making it the largest economic region in Poland. There are approximately 480,000 companies operating in the region, and especially in the Katowice Economic Zone, there are around 400 world-renowned companies, including 24 Korean companies such as SK Hynix.