SEOUL, May 19 (UPI) -- South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi agreed to strengthen supply chain cooperation and boost efforts to secure crude oil and liquefied natural gas amid the ongoing Middle East crisis, both leaders said Tuesday as they met for a summit in Lee's hometown of Andong.

The South Korean and Japanese leaders, whose nations have not always had good relations, have vowed deeper ties at talks. They reaffirmed stronger security coordination and energy cooperation in challenging times.