Seoul: Defense Minister nominee Ahn Gyu-back announced his intention to revisit a previously scrapped military tension reduction agreement, should he be confirmed in his new role, as part of an initiative to foster peace on the Korean Peninsula. Ahn, who has served as a five-term lawmaker, was selected by President Lee Jae Myung earlier this month as his first defense minister. This nomination marks a significant shift as Ahn is the first civilian to be considered for the defense chief position in 64 years, a role traditionally filled by retired military generals.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Ahn emphasized the importance of dialogue in his approach to North Korea, referring to the North as both "our enemy yet our people." He advocates for a multitrack strategy in dealing with North Korea and suggests that the 2018 military pact be revisited from the beginning. President Lee had previously expressed a commitment during his campaign to revive the suspended inter-Korean military tension reduction pact to ensure peace in the border region. The agreement was fully suspended by South Korea in June last year in reaction to North Korea's actions involving trash-carrying balloons.
Ahn, however, indicated that he would take into account various factors to pursue the "most peaceful approach" rather than immediately restoring the agreement. He also addressed concerns regarding increasing pressure to boost defense spending and rumors about the U.S. seeking "strategic flexibility" for its Forces in Korea. Ahn stated his intention to handle these issues by prioritizing national interests and adopting a proactive stance. "I believe we need to cope with such issues in a proactive and positive manner, rather than a passive manner. I will assess where our national interest lies and approach issues in such a proactive manner," Ahn asserted.