Gyeongju: President Lee Jae Myung on Wednesday requested U.S. President Donald Trump to grant South Korea the authority to secure fuel for nuclear-powered submarines, while committing to increased defense spending. This appeal occurred during their summit in Gyeongju, as South Korea aims to revise its bilateral nuclear energy agreement with the U.S. to gain more flexibility in reprocessing spent nuclear fuel and uranium enrichment.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee highlighted the limitations of diesel-powered submarines in tracking North Korean or Chinese submarines and clarified that the request is not for nuclear-armed submarines. He asserted that with the fuel supply, South Korea could construct submarines with conventional weapons, reducing the U.S.' military burden.
Lee called on Trump to expedite consultations on revising the nuclear pact regarding spent nuclear fuel reprocessing and uranium enrichment. The current agreement restricts South Korea to enrich uranium below 20 percent only with U.S. consent and prohibits reprocessing spent fuel.
Lee also committed to transforming the alliance into a "future-oriented comprehensive strategic alliance" through modernization and defense budget increases. He reaffirmed support for Trump's initiatives to revive the U.S. manufacturing sector through expanded investments and purchases, particularly in the shipbuilding industry.
The summit, which followed their White House talks in August, did not directly address tariffs, although Trump mentioned a forthcoming trade deal. Despite speculation, both leaders confirmed no meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un would occur during Trump's Asia visit.
Lee emphasized Trump's willingness to meet Kim "at any time" as a positive step for peace on the Korean Peninsula. In the evening, a special dinner with Trump and leaders from seven nations focused on strengthening South Korea's role as a U.S. ally and regional cooperation leader.
Discussions included economic ties, alliance modernization, regional security, and shipbuilding industry cooperation. National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac noted that Lee explained the challenges South Korea faces with nuclear fuel imports from Russia and managing spent fuel. Trump acknowledged the need for broader strategic opportunities based on South Korea's nuclear capabilities.
Lee's request for nuclear submarine fuel approval, considered for military use, will require adjustments to the current bilateral nuclear pact. Lee reiterated his commitment to denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula, while Trump expressed concerns about North Korea's nuclear threat and pledged support for peace and stability.
Both leaders agreed to establish a consultative body for shipbuilding cooperation, and Trump expressed interest in inviting Lee to the White House for further discussions, with Lee expressing gratitude and willingness to visit at a convenient time.