1. President Yoon Suk Yeol and President of Italy Sergio Mattarella exchanged congratulatory letters on June 26, 2024, on the 140th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and the Italian Republic.

※ Korea and Italy forged diplomatic relations on June 26, 1884 (upon signing the Korea-Italy Treaty of Friendship, Commerce, and Navigation).

2. In his letter, President Yoon extended his friendly greetings to President Mattarella and the people of Italy and noted that Korea and Italy have enriched mutually beneficial cooperation across many diverse fields as both countries share the common values of freedom, human rights and democracy.

3. Furthermore, President Yoon took note of President Mattarella's state visit to Korea last November, saying that it served as an important opportunity for the two countries to further elevate their Strategic Partnership. President Yoon also stated his hope that the commemoration of the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the “2024–2025 Year of Mutual Cultural Exchange between Korea and Italy” will lead to an increase in bilateral exchanges and cooperation.

4. In his letter, President Mattarella expressed satisfaction with the strengthened bond of friendship between Korea and Italy on the occasion of the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations, and affirmed that Italy will continue to reinforce the Strategic Partnership with Korea, which shares with it common values and visions as well as the commitment to defend peace and stability in the global sphere.