Blue House: "Korea-US Summit Symbolizes Both Leaders' Will... Fukushima and Vaccine Issues Uncertain"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] The Blue House stated that the decision for the upcoming Korea-US summit "demonstrates the strong will of both leaders to prioritize the Korea-US alliance and develop it in a more comprehensive and mutually beneficial manner." Regarding whether issues such as the Fukushima contaminated water discharge decision and COVID-19 vaccine supply will be on the agenda, they responded, "The schedule has not been set yet."

A Blue House official met with reporters at the Chuncheon Press Center on the 16th and said, "This summit is the first face-to-face meeting between the two presidents and the second summit announced since the Biden administration took office."

The official added, "It is being held as an extension of close communication between the Korea-US leaders through two phone calls since the Biden administration began, as well as between foreign and defense ministers, national security advisors, and policy chiefs," and said, "Based on prior consultations, it will serve as an opportunity for in-depth strategic communication and cooperation on key bilateral issues such as the Korea-US alliance and North Korea policy."

The Blue House expects this summit to be a momentum for denuclearization and peace settlement on the Korean Peninsula. A Blue House official said, "President Moon’s visit to the US was scheduled around the time when the US announced its review results of North Korea policy, making it an opportunity for Korea and the US to be together from the start to the conclusion of the US North Korea policy review," and added, "We expect the Korea-US leaders to send a strong joint message to North Korea and the international community."

Furthermore, amid the Biden administration’s ongoing major policy reviews such as supply chain assessments for semiconductors, batteries, rare earths, and pharmaceuticals, the official emphasized, "This Korea-US summit is also very important in terms of enhancing practical cooperation in overcoming COVID-19, economic recovery, trade, and investment." They added that Korea and the US will strengthen cooperation on regional and global challenges such as climate change, COVID-19, and democracy.

Regarding whether the controversial Japanese decision to discharge Fukushima nuclear plant contaminated water will be on the agenda, the official was reserved. They said, "Since the schedule has not yet been agreed upon, it is difficult to comment at this stage," and added, "(The agenda) will be quite comprehensive."

On whether vaccine supply will be discussed, the official said, "We will continue to negotiate specific schedules and agenda allocations," and added, "All departments are cooperating to respond fully to securing COVID-19 vaccines, and diplomatically, we are mobilizing administrative and diplomatic capabilities through consultations with high-ranking officials of related countries and embassy activities."