Seoul: Acting President Han Duck-soo called on the government Tuesday to ensure people are safe and the national interest is secured amid the global trade war triggered by the United States. Han made the remark during a Cabinet meeting, the first since he was reinstated as acting president after the Constitutional Court overturned his impeachment the previous day.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Han emphasized the serious impact of the U.S.-induced trade conflict, highlighting the growing challenges faced by citizens, small merchants, and the self-employed due to sluggish domestic demand and rising inflation. He urged the need for protective measures and cooperation with the National Assembly to address these pressing issues.
Han expressed his commitment to navigating the "tariff storm" with his extensive background in trade and foreign policy, while working collaboratively with both ruling and opposition parties to alleviate the crisis affecting citizens' livelihoods. He also stressed the importance of timely implementation and communication of government policies.
Regarding the recent wildfires in the nation's southeast, Han promised the government's full support for rapid recovery and efforts to extinguish the fires using helicopters and ground personnel. He expressed concern over the ongoing situation with medical school students, urging them to return to their studies after a government-announced admissions increase aimed at addressing a doctor shortage.
Lastly, Han called on the military to maintain readiness to respond to any provocations from North Korea, emphasizing the critical security situation facing the nation.