Tokyo: Foreign Minister Cho Hyun on Tuesday emphasized South Korea's efforts to enhance relationships with "friendly nations" under the Lee Jae Myung administration, signaling a commitment to maintaining improved bilateral relations with Japan.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Cho made this statement during the commencement of talks with Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya in Tokyo. This visit, taking precedence over a trip to the United States, indicates the Lee administration's focus on prioritizing both bilateral and trilateral relations. Cho highlighted the Lee government's pragmatic foreign policy aimed at fortifying ties with allied countries and conveyed President Lee's warm regards to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, reflecting a commitment to fostering a future-oriented relationship with Japan.
The talks marked the first direct meeting between Cho and Iwaya since Cho assumed office the previous week. Both ministers underscored the significance of advancing bilateral relations and trilateral cooperation with the United States, aligning with their national interests to address regional challenges. The South Korean foreign ministry emphasized the necessity of close communication to ensure regional peace and stability.
Following the talks, a working dinner was held, extending beyond its scheduled time, with Cho inviting Iwaya to Seoul for their next meeting. The decision for Cho to visit Japan before Washington was seen as unconventional, as new South Korean foreign ministers traditionally visit Washington first. Cho expressed optimism that this shift would elevate both bilateral ties with Japan and trilateral cooperation.
The discussions with Iwaya also included historical issues stemming from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule of Korea. Cho emphasized a long-term approach to developing a mutually beneficial, future-oriented Korea-Japan relationship. In Washington, Cho plans to engage in comprehensive discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on alliance modernization and shared issues, as South Korea's tariff negotiations with the U.S. reach a critical stage. These negotiations are crucial due to the impending deadline set by the Donald Trump administration, which could subject South Korean goods to significant tariffs if unresolved.
Cho expressed his commitment to supporting the tariff negotiations, highlighting the importance of these diplomatic efforts in navigating the challenges and opportunities facing South Korea in its international relations.