Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff policy is likely to be "detrimental" to the United States' relationship with South Korea, warned Korean American Senator Andy Kim. The statement comes at a crucial time when Washington is seeking alliances to counter global competitors and adversaries.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ) expressed his concerns in a video message during the Korean Peninsula Symposium, revealing the ongoing negotiations between the two nations over U.S. tariffs. In his remarks, Sen. Kim criticized President Trump's approach, stating, "I disagree significantly with how President Trump has engaged not just in terms of South Korea but more broadly around the world, pushing the United States towards a more transactional foreign policy."
Sen. Kim highlighted the issues arising from the tariffs, which include a 25 percent duty on South Korean goods, and how they could add unnecessary friction to bilateral relations. This is at a time when strong partnerships are essential for addressing global challenges.
In April, President Trump announced "reciprocal" tariffs aimed at matching those imposed by other countries on U.S. exports. Although these tariffs took effect later that month, a 90-day pause was introduced to allow for negotiations between the U.S. and South Korea.
Sen. Kim expressed hope for a resolution, emphasizing the importance of forming a new economic partnership grounded in technology and innovation. He also extended his congratulations to President Lee Jae Myung on his recent election victory and advocated for a stronger alliance between the two countries.
He emphasized, "Now is a time more than ever that we need the leadership in the United States and South Korea to recommit themselves to a strategic alliance and partnership that will be an anchor to the Indo-Pacific region." Notably, Kim, who became the first-ever Korean American senator in November, also underscored the significance of this partnership for regional stability.