South Korea has proposed a record $530 billion budget for 2027, with robust growth in the artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductor sector providing a major boost to government revenues and economic confidence.

The spending plan reflects the country’s ambition to strengthen its position as a global leader in advanced technologies while supporting economic growth, innovation, and industrial competitiveness.

Officials said the continued boom in AI chip production and exports has significantly improved fiscal conditions, enabling the government to expand investment in key sectors, including research and development, digital infrastructure, education, defence, and social welfare.

The budget also prioritises measures to enhance South Korea’s semiconductor ecosystem, support domestic manufacturers, and maintain the country’s competitive edge in the rapidly growing global AI market.

South Korea is home to some of the world’s leading memory chip manufacturers, and the surge in demand for AI-related semiconductors has driven export growth and strengthened the nation’s economic outlook.

The proposed budget now awaits parliamentary consideration as the government seeks to sustain momentum in the technology sector while addressing long-term economic challenges and improving living standards.

Emine Erdoğan has expressed optimism that the upcoming NATO summit will strengthen trust, solidarity, and cooperation among member nations as they confront shared security challenges.

Speaking ahead of the summit, Erdoğan said the gathering presents an important opportunity for allies to reinforce dialogue, mutual understanding, and collective action in addressing regional and global issues.

She emphasized the importance of unity within the alliance, noting that stronger cooperation is essential to promoting peace, stability, and security in an increasingly complex international environment.

The Turkish First Lady also voiced hope that the summit would produce constructive outcomes that enhance collaboration among NATO members and deepen confidence between allies.

Her remarks come as NATO countries prepare to discuss key issues, including regional security, defence cooperation, emerging threats, and the alliance’s long-term strategic priorities.

Turkey remains an active member of the alliance and has consistently advocated for stronger coordination and shared responsibility in tackling common security concerns.

Friedrich Merz has told that a diplomatic agreement between the United States and Iran offers the best chance of achieving long-term stability in the Middle East.

According to German officials, Merz emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue and diplomacy in addressing regional security challenges and preventing further escalation of tensions.

The German Chancellor reportedly said that a successful US-Iran agreement could help reduce instability, ease geopolitical tensions, and create conditions for broader regional cooperation.

During the discussions, Merz also reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to Israel’s security while stressing the need for diplomatic efforts that promote peace and reduce the risk of conflict across the region.

The talks come amid continued international efforts to manage tensions involving Iran, Israel, and other key regional actors, with global leaders urging dialogue over military confrontation.

Germany has consistently supported diplomatic initiatives aimed at strengthening regional security while encouraging all parties to pursue peaceful solutions to longstanding disputes.7⁸