Dong-yeon Kim meets with Isabel Diaz Ayuso, Governor of Madrid, Spain… Discussion of cooperation in investment, startups, etc.
[더팩트ㅣ수원=신태호 기자] Ahead of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Korea and Spain in 2025, Gyeonggi Province Governor Kim Dong-yeon met with Spain’s Madrid Province Governor Isabel Díaz Ayuso at the Gyeonggi Provincial Office on the 25th and exchanged opinions on areas of cooperation between the two local governments.
This is Governor Diaz Ayuso’s first visit to Korea, and he visited Gyeonggi Province to explore ways to cooperate in investment, digital, and cultural areas.
On this day, both governors agreed on the importance of cooperation between local governments during a period of change in the international situation and agreed to form a consultation channel to explore ways to cooperate in high-tech industries such as AI, startups, health care, and tourism.
Governor Kim Dong-yeon mentioned that the city of Alcalade Henares, the hometown of Cervantes, the author of ‘Don Quixote,’ is located in the province of Madrid, saying, “I read the complete translation of Don Quixote. While working in politics after becoming Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, I always wondered what Don Quixote’s windmills would be like in Korean society. “We have been making efforts for innovation,” he said.
He added, “I hope that we can create a good cooperative relationship for investment and corporate advancement in the future,” and added, “I look forward to a further strengthened cooperative relationship between the Province of Madrid and Gyeonggi Province in startups, AI, and tourism.”
Governor Diaz Ayuso said, “Madrid is like the economic engine of Spain and plays a significant role in the finance, insurance, and education-related industries, and is a region open to everyone with rich culture, gastronomy, and various sports and entertainment events.” “Through this visit, we hope to strengthen economic, technological and cultural relations with Korea, including Gyeonggi Province,” he said.
He also said, “When I came to Korea and saw it in person, I felt that it was very developed not only in terms of industry and technology, but also culturally,” and added, “I hope to work with Gyeonggi Province next year as well.”
Governor Kim Dong-yeon and Governor Diaz Ayuso promised to make mutual official visits as soon as possible.
The province of Madrid, which encompasses the capital city of Madrid and the metropolitan area, has the highest GDP in Spain (262 million euros in 2022) and attracts more than 75% of Spanish investments. It is the economic, political, and cultural center of the Iberian Peninsula and is considered the most active region for start-ups in Spain.
Governor Kim is expanding exchanges with Spain, including discussing cooperation measures with Spanish Ambassador to Korea Guillermo Kirkpatrick in March.
The province successfully held the ‘2024 Gyeonggi Startup Summit’ last September in cooperation with South Summit, a global startup platform located in Madrid.
**Governor Kim highlighted the importance of local government cooperation in a changing world. Given the increasing focus on sustainability, are there any specific environmental initiatives where Gyeonggi Province and Madrid Province could collaborate, potentially benefiting both regions?**
αποτελέσματα, the HBR article suggests asking questions such as:
**Thematic Section: Fostering Strong Relationships and Cooperation in the International Arena**
* **Governor Kim, you mentioned the importance of local government cooperation during these changing times. What specific challenges and opportunities do you see for Gyeonggi Province and Madrid Province in working together on the international stage?**
* **Governor Diaz Ayuso, what drew you to Gyeonggi Province as your first stop in Korea? How do you see this initial visit laying the groundwork for future collaboration between Madrid and Gyeonggi?**
* **Both provinces have strengths in technology and innovation. What are some concrete areas where you envision joint projects or initiatives emerging from this partnership?**
**Thematic Section: Economic Development and Investment Opportunities**
* **Governor Kim, you expressed interest in attracting investment and supporting corporate advancement. Can you elaborate on the specific sectors or industries where you see potential for Madrid-based companies to invest in Gyeonggi Province?**
* **Governor Diaz Ayuso, Madrid is often described as Spain’s economic engine. What are some unique advantages or incentives you offer to foreign companies looking to invest in Madrid? **
* **How can this partnership between Gyeonggi and Madrid benefit smaller businesses and startups, encouraging cross-border collaboration and market expansion?**
**Thematic Section: Cultural Exchange and Building Bridges**
* **Governor Kim, your reference to Don Quixote suggests a shared appreciation for cultural heritage. What are your hopes for fostering cultural exchange and understanding between the people of Gyeonggi Province and Madrid?**
* **Governor Diaz Ayuso, what aspects of Korean culture have impressed you during your visit, and how can these experiences be shared and celebrated in Madrid?**
* **In the digital age, how can technology be leveraged to enhance cultural exchange between our provinces, promoting tourism, educational exchange, or artistic collaborations?**
Remember to leave room in the interview for spontaneous discussion and allow the governors to share their unique insights and perspectives on these important topics.
