Minister Kang Emphasizes South Korean Government's Position on Forced Labor Issue
On the 28th, at the 7th Integrated Subcommittee Meeting on Diplomatic Strategy Coordination held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building in Jongno-gu, Seoul, Minister of Foreign Affairs Kang Kyung-wha is delivering opening remarks. Photo by Kim Hyun-min kimhyun81@
[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] On the morning of the 3rd, Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha held a phone call with Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu to exchange views on major Korea-Japan issues and mutual interests, including the response to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) and export control measures.
Minister Kang especially expressed deep regret over the continued maintenance of the export control measures despite Korea's active efforts, such as the amendment of the Foreign Trade Act, to resolve all the reasons raised by the Japanese government for the export control measures and to urge the prompt withdrawal of these measures. In response, Foreign Minister Motegi reportedly reiterated Japan's basic position. Minister Kang also emphasized Korea's stance regarding the forced labor issue.
They continued to share a consensus on strengthening intergovernmental cooperation in response to COVID-19. Foreign Minister Kang and Foreign Minister Motegi evaluated the cooperation between the two governments for the return of Korean and Japanese nationals staying overseas amid the COVID-19 outbreak and agreed on the need to expand cooperation related to this infectious disease situation.
A Foreign Ministry official explained, "The two ministers shared their positions and assessments on the recent situation in North Korea," and added, "The two ministers agreed to continue communication and consultations between the foreign ministries of both countries to resolve Korea-Japan issues."
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