During a bilateral meeting in Vientiane, Laos, President Yoon Suk Yeol discussed with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese the interest of South Korean companies in participating in Australia's frigate replacement initiative, Project Sea 3000. Yoon emphasized South Korea's eagerness to be part of the program aimed at acquiring 11 general-purpose frigates, and he inquired about Australia's interest in proposals from South Korean bidders, with Australia set to open bids in February. The two leaders committed to enhancing cooperation in defense equipment procurement, supply chain stability, and economic security, recognizing each other as "values-sharing partners." This meeting marked Yoon's fifth bilateral discussion with various leaders at the ASEAN Summit this week, having previously met with leaders from Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, and Laos. Following this summit, Yoon concluded his Southeast Asian trip, which included visits to the Philippines, Singapore, and Laos, before returning to Seoul.