Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung announced Thursday his commitment to achieving "mutually beneficial" outcomes from ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, guided by pragmatic diplomacy focused on national interests. This statement was made during a press conference marking his first month in office, amidst ongoing discussions between Seoul and Washington to reduce the 25 percent reciprocal tariffs imposed by the U.S., with a deadline approaching on July 8 as set by U.S. President Donald Trump.
According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee emphasized the importance of these negotiations, describing them as one of the most urgent issues at hand. He expressed his administration's dedication to achieving sustainable results in the Korea-U.S. trade talks. Lee articulated his strategy during the conference held at Cheong Wa Dae, the former presidential compound, highlighting the significance of pragmatic diplomacy that prioritizes Korea's national interests.
In addition to trade matters, President Lee outlined his intentions to foster peace on the Korean Peninsula. He announced the suspension of propaganda loudspeaker broadcasts along the border, a move he hopes will encourage renewed dialogue with North Korea. Lee expressed optimism that North Korea's positive response to this initiative could lead to a "virtuous cycle of peace."
President Lee reiterated his administration's commitment to reopening inter-Korean communication channels, aiming to establish an environment of peace and coexistence on the Korean Peninsula through dialogue and cooperation.