Seoul: The United States is optimistic that the alliance between Seoul and Washington will continue to "thrive" under the leadership of newly elected South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, as stated by a spokesperson from the State Department.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Tammy Bruce, the spokesperson, addressed the issue during a regular press briefing. Her comments were in response to a question regarding the Lee administration's commitment to a "pragmatic" foreign policy that considers the bilateral alliance as its core foundation. "We congratulate the president on his election as the president of the Republic of Korea, and we're confident under his leadership, our alliance will continue to thrive," Bruce remarked, referring to South Korea by its official name.
Bruce also confirmed that President Lee and U.S. President Donald Trump had a phone conversation last Friday. During the 20-minute call, both leaders agreed to collaborate on reaching a mutually satisfactory trade agreement, as stated by Lee's office. The two presidents are also expected to meet in person for the first time at the upcoming Group of Seven summit, scheduled to take place in Alberta, Canada, from June 15-17.