South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Tuesday urged lawmakers to triple government spending on projects aimed at expanding artificial intelligence infrastructure and technology, as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s competitiveness in emerging industries.

In a budget address to the National Assembly, Lee also pressed for approval of an 8.2% increase in defense spendingfor next year, saying the additional funds would help modernize the military’s weapons systems and reduce Seoul’s reliance on the United States.

His remarks came as South Korea and the U.S. held their annual security talks in Seoul, underscoring the dual focus of Lee’s administration on technological innovation and national defense amid growing geopolitical and economic challenges.