Local Governments as Key Players in Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation... Establishment of a Council under the Ministry of Unification

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] The Ministry of Unification announced that the partial amendment to the Enforcement Decree of the "Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Act," which specifies local governments as the main entities of inter-Korean exchange and cooperation projects and establishes the "Local Government Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Policy Council" under the Ministry of Unification, passed the Cabinet meeting on the 23rd.

This amendment to the Enforcement Decree was prepared to stipulate necessary matters for the composition and operation of the Local Government Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Policy Council, delegated by Article 24-2 of the revised Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Act on December 8 last year.

The Local Government Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Policy Council is chaired by the Vice Minister of Unification and consists of up to 20 members, including heads of departments or directors in charge of inter-Korean exchange and cooperation affairs from metropolitan cities, special cities, special self-governing cities, provinces, and special self-governing provinces.

The council will discuss matters related to local governments' inter-Korean exchange and cooperation policies, projects, institutional improvements, and support. Additionally, a working-level council will be established to review agenda items in advance and handle delegated matters.

The Ministry of Unification stated, "With the enforcement of this amendment, the Local Government Inter-Korean Exchange and Cooperation Policy Council can operate stably on an institutional basis," and "through this policy council, smooth communication and cooperation between the Ministry of Unification and local governments will be enhanced, contributing to the revitalization of inter-Korean exchange and cooperation at the local government level." The partial amendment to the Enforcement Decree will take effect from the 9th of next month.