Rubio Affirms Confidence in South Korea’s Acting President and Bilateral Alliance: State Dept.

Munich: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday affirmed his confidence in South Korea's Acting President Choi Sang-mok and the strength of the bilateral alliance, reiterating America's commitment to the "complete denuclearization" of North Korea, according to a statement from the State Department.According to Yonhap News Agency, Rubio made these remarks during bilateral talks with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul at the Munich Security Conference in Germany. This meeting marked the first in-person interaction between the two since Rubio took office last month. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce noted that Secretary Rubio reiterated America's commitment to DPRK's denuclearization while expressing openness to dialogue under the Trump administration.Rubio's expression of confidence in Acting President Choi marks a significant gesture from a top Trump administration official, as U.S. President Donald Trump has yet to publicly address Choi since his inauguration last month. Choi assume d leadership following the impeachment of Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on December 27, shortly after President Yoon Suk Yeol faced impeachment over a brief martial law declaration.During the discussions in Munich, Rubio emphasized the importance of enduring defense and economic ties, highlighting areas such as shipbuilding, semiconductors, and energy sectors, with a particular focus on American liquefied natural gas exports. Both diplomats also shared concerns over China's actions in the South China Sea.Seoul's foreign ministry released a statement noting that Cho and Rubio agreed to collaborate closely on North Korea policy under the Trump administration. They also discussed military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, agreeing to monitor the situation closely.As South Korea navigates its relationship with the new Trump administration, issues such as the bilateral alliance, North Korean threats, and U.S. tariff plans remain crucial. Cho advocated for mutually beneficial solu tions to tariff issues and conveyed South Korea's willingness to resolve them through close consultations.Rubio responded by pledging to communicate Seoul's position to Washington, suggesting further discussions between the two governments. Trump's proposed tariffs on steel, aluminum, and possibly cars and chips underscore the need for prompt coordination.Both Rubio and Cho emphasized their commitment to enhancing collaboration in sectors like shipbuilding and energy. Cho also underscored the successes of South Korean investments in the U.S., seeking American support for a favorable investment environment.The meeting occurred amid South Korea's efforts to maintain diplomatic engagement following the December martial law controversy. Rubio reassured Cho of the U.S.'s commitment to stable relations, irrespective of domestic political events.The topic of North Korea's denuclearization remains pivotal, especially after Trump's administration referred to Pyongyang as a "nuclear power," spurring debate in S eoul over potential U.S. recognition of North Korea's nuclear status. Trump later reaffirmed his commitment to denuclearization during a summit with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.Following the bilateral talks, Cho is set to join Rubio and Japanese counterpart Takeshi Iwaya for a trilateral meeting to reinforce the importance of trilateral cooperation. Cho's attendance at the Munich Security Conference also marks his first overseas trip since the martial law incident.