Korea-Japan Deputy Foreign Ministers Phone Call... Choi Jong-geon Urges "Prompt Withdrawal of Japan's Export Restrictions"

Conveying Our Position on Forced Labor Ruling Issue... First Remote Communication Since Vice Minister Choi's Appointment

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] On the 12th, Choi Jong-geon, First Vice Foreign Minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, held his first phone call since taking office with Takeo Akiba, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, and exchanged broad opinions on mutual interests.

Vice Minister Choi and Vice Minister Akiba evaluated the continued exchanges and dialogue between the two countries following the confirmation of their commitment to the development of Korea-Japan relations through a phone call between the two leaders on the occasion of the launch of the Yoshihide Suga Cabinet in Japan. The two vice ministers also shared the recognition of the need for close communication and dialogue between the Korean and Japanese governments regarding major issues such as the ongoing spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), the Tokyo Olympics, and the situation on the Korean Peninsula.

Subsequently, Vice Minister Choi wished for the successful hosting of the Tokyo Olympics, to which Vice Minister Akiba expressed his gratitude. In particular, Vice Minister Choi reiterated Korea's position on the forced labor ruling issue and emphasized the importance of the prompt withdrawal of Japan's export restrictions. Vice Minister Akiba explained Japan's position on these issues.

Vice Minister Choi and Vice Minister Akiba also exchanged views on expanding Korea-Japan exchanges, Korea-US-Japan cooperation, and other regional issues of interest, agreeing to continue close communication on mutual interests in the future.