Geneva: National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik emphasized the importance of maintaining communication channels between South and North Korea during a keynote speech at the sixth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament in Switzerland. His call comes amid strained inter-Korean relations.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Woo's remarks were made just two days after Kim Yo-jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, dismissed South Korea's efforts to engage in talks. This rejection comes as South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has been advocating for renewed inter-Korean dialogue to reduce military tensions and foster improved relations.
Woo underscored the significance of keeping dialogue channels open despite current challenges. He noted the cessation of loudspeaker broadcasts, propaganda leaflets, and balloons filled with waste and jamming signals along the inter-Korean border, which previously symbolized confrontation and hostility. Woo expressed optimism that the "small peace" emerging along the border could evolve into "greater peace" on the Korean Peninsula, ultimately contributing to global peace.
Since assuming office last month, President Lee's administration has taken steps to mend the frayed ties by halting loudspeaker broadcasts along the border and urging civic groups to stop anti-Pyongyang leaflet campaigns.
In his address, Woo also highlighted the resilience of South Korea's democracy during a political crisis triggered by former President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law bid in December. He emphasized that South Korea's democracy thrives with active citizen participation and the responsible role of parliament.
During the conference, Woo held separate meetings with his Japanese and Singaporean counterparts, Fukushiro Nukaga and Seah Kian Peng, to explore avenues for enhancing parliamentary diplomacy and cooperation. Although Pak In-chol, chairman of North Korea's Supreme People's Assembly, attended the conference, a meeting between Woo and Pak did not occur.