The President received California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger on Sep. 15, at the presidential residence, Cheong Wa Dae.

The President stressed the importance of cooperation between Korea and the U.S. in order to strengthen bilateral trade and ensure prompt ratification of the Korea-U.S. free trade agreement.

The President also urged Governor Schwarzenegger to support cooperation between Korean and U.S. firms in biotechnology, IT, entertainment and renewable energy industries.

The President meets California Governor Schwarzenegger at Cheong Wa Dae on Sep.15.

The President also spoke with Schwarzenegger regarding California’s proposed high-speed railway construction project, asking the Governor to provide support for Korean firms wishing to take part in the project.

Schwarzenegger said he was impressed with Korea’s high speed train, and will consider Korea''s bid in California’s high-speed train project. He also said he will actively cooperate in an early ratification of the Korea-U.S. free trade deal, and economic cooperation between Korea and California. Schwarzenegger arrived in Seoul on Sep.14 as part of his trip to Asia.

Meanwhile, the President welcomed news that Korean city of Pyeongchang was selected to host the 2013 Winter Special Olympics, an international competition for people with intellectual disabilities.