Korea, Peru set to begin FTA talks early next year

LIMA, Nov. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korea and Peru are planning to launch
negotiations on a bilateral free trade agreement during the first half of next
year, a government official accompanying South Korean President Lee Myung-bak on
his state visit to Peru said Thursday.

Lee and Peruvian President Alan Garcia are expected to agree to start talks early
for a bilateral FTA during their summit talks in Lima on Friday, the official
told reporters on condition of anonymity.
"Lee and Garcia will agree to form comprehensive cooperative relations between
their countries and push for the combination of Korean capital and technology
with Peruvian energy and natural resources, as well as for the conclusion of a
dual taxation prevention accord," said the official.
President Lee will also ask for Garcia's support for Korean companies seeking to
participate in the Peruvian government's plans to build new petrochemical plants,
modernize its military and expand roads, ports, housing and other infrastructure,
he noted.
Lee arrived in Lima from Brazil on Thursday for a state visit and to attend the
annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum over the weekend.
ycm@yna.co.kr
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