Seoul: Future discussions between South Korean and Japanese leaders should be based on "candid" dialogue to address unresolved issues stemming from Japan's colonial rule over the Korean Peninsula, a senior Japanese cabinet official stated. This call for open discussions follows President Lee Jae Myung's first bilateral meeting with recently appointed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, conducted on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation gathering.
According to Yonhap News Agency, both leaders have agreed to strengthen practical cooperation and tackle shared challenges through reciprocal visits, indicating a warming of relations. However, uncertainties linger about the sustainability of this positive momentum, especially if contentious issues re-emerge. Prime Minister Takaichi's hard-line stance on wartime history, exemplified by her visits to a controversial shrine, remains a point of contention, criticized by South Korea and China as a glorification of Japan's militaristic history.
The Japanese official emphasized the necessity for the leaders to engage in candid dialogue over these naturally difficult issues. "I think both President Lee and Prime Minister Takaichi are very pragmatic politicians... I think, in due course, if there are issues that have to be discussed, there are going to be some discussions," the official remarked, highlighting the importance of establishing a good personal relationship for such frank talks.
Regarding South Korea's tariff deal with the United States in comparison to Japan's agreement with the mutual ally, the official stated that both Seoul and Tokyo share the strategic value of their alliances with Washington. The importance of the U.S. alliance for both countries, in economic and strategic terms, was underscored as vital for peace and stability, with trade and investment relations with the U.S. serving common interests.
Thursday's summit between President Lee and Prime Minister Takaichi was described as having a "good and cordial" atmosphere, marking a "good start" and reaffirming the commitment to continue shuttle diplomacy, as noted by the official.