OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has postponed his planned visit to South Korea due to personal reasons, according to Yonhap News Agency. The postponement was announced as South Korean President Lee Jae Myung concluded a state visit to Italy, during which the two nations signed four agreements to bolster bilateral cooperation.
The agreements aim to enhance exchanges in advanced science and technology, including artificial intelligence, quantum technology, bioscience, and space technology. A joint science and technology committee will monitor progress in these strategic sectors, which are intended to form a new pillar of cooperation under the elevated special strategic partnership between South Korea and Italy.
Furthermore, South Korea and Italy will explore joint development cooperation projects in Africa, focusing on mutually beneficial areas such as coffee plantations, agriculture, and digital education. Prospective host countries for these projects include Uganda, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Cote d'Ivoire. The two countries also agreed to foster dialogue and exchanges concerning policies for small and medium-sized enterprises. President Lee and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni committed to launching a bilateral strategic action plan through 2030 to oversee joint initiatives.