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| From right, British Minister of State for the Indo-Pacific Anne-Marie Trevelyan, British Chamber of Commerce in Korea (BCCK) Executive Director Lucinda Walker, BCCK consultant Elspeth Stewart, Korn Ferry partner Christina Ahn, British Ambassador to Korea Colin Crooks and British Embassy Director of Trade and Investment Tony Clemson pose during a launch event for "Empower," a program for female entrepreneurs and professionals in Korea at the British ambassador's residence in central Seoul, May 11. Courtesy of British Embassy Seoul |
British Embassy Seoul launches 'Empower' program
By Kwon Mee-yoo
British Minister of State for the Indo-Pacific Anne-Marie Trevelyan visited Korea from May 11 to 12, with the aim of enhancing cooperation on climate change and economic and regional security as part of the United Kingdom's ambition to assert a strong presence in the Indo-Pacific region.
During her first visit to Korea, Trevelyan toured the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between Koreas and met with Vice Foreign Minister Lee Do-hoon as a gesture to reaffirm the U.K.'s commitment to peace and security.
Trevelyan also unveiled the U.K.'s plan to initiate a strategic development partnership with Korea, a move that will bolster the influence of the existing development commitments between the two countries. This initiative is aimed at improving the living conditions of individuals in developing countries with a focus on areas such as climate, economic resilience, development finance and health.
"This year marks 140 years in the U.K.'s friendship with South Korea, our valued partner on key issues from regional security to climate change," Trevelyan said. "By forming new partnerships on development and economic security, we will benefit our two great nations and build stability in the wider Indo-Pacific region.
She also took part in a launch event for "Empower," a program co-organized by the British Embassy and the British Chamber of Commerce in Korea (BCCK) to promote gender equality in the workplace.
The initiative will assist Korean businesswomen by offering a platform for knowledge exchange, shared experiences and insights as well as networking with industry professionals from prominent British firms in Korea as an extension of the inaugural International Women and Girls Strategy 2023 to 2030 of the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), published in March.
The inaugural year-long program includes 14 participants from various industries and backgrounds, from emerging startups to well-established corporations. The list of participating companies includes Deloitte, Diageo, PWC, HSBC, Jaguar Land Rover and British defense companies.
"We are delighted to launch Empower in partnership with the British Chamber of Commerce Korea and major British companies operating in Korea. Together, we can create a powerful network that empowers female entrepreneurs and professionals and promotes gender diversity and inclusion," British Ambassador to Korea Colin Crooks said.
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