Gyeongju: Foreign Minister Cho Hyun engaged in discussions with his newly appointed Japanese counterpart, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) gathering, as confirmed by Seoul's foreign ministry. This meeting signifies the first official talks between Cho and Motegi following the formation of Japan's new cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who assumed office last week.
According to Yonhap News Agency, both ministers acknowledged the increasing significance of bilateral relations against the backdrop of the current international climate. They concurred on the necessity of enhancing communication across multiple levels to elevate the "quality of substantive cooperation." Additionally, they committed to collaborative efforts to promote stable growth in their bilateral relations.
The dialogue also encompassed matters related to the Korean Peninsula, along with discussions on regional and global cooperation. Minister Cho elaborated on the Lee Jae Myung administration's policy towards North Korea, emphasizing initiatives to alleviate military tensions and foster inter-Korean trust to achieve peaceful coexistence.
Prime Minister Takaichi is anticipated to arrive in Gyeongju, the venue for the APEC forum, on Thursday. She is slated to engage in bilateral discussions with Lee Jae Myung later in the day.