US Ambassador: "Efforts Underway to Supply Vaccines to the US by June"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Correspondent Baek Jong-min] Ambassador Lee Soo-hyuk to the United States stated that he will do his best to secure the supply of COVID-19 vaccines from the U.S. before June.

On the 10th (local time), during a video conference with correspondents, Ambassador Lee said, "I have heard that the U.S. understands Korea's situation well," and added, "We are continuously consulting through contacts with senior Pfizer executives."

It is reported that there are currently no plans for contact between President Moon and Pfizer's CEO during his visit to the U.S. While the government acknowledges that pharmaceutical companies should discuss domestic production of COVID-19 vaccines, it is known that the government is also interested and is conducting close consultations.

Regarding South Korea's participation in the unofficial quadrilateral group 'Quad'?comprising the U.S., Japan, India, and Australia?aimed at countering China, the government is reportedly carefully considering joining the working groups focused on three areas: COVID-19 vaccines, climate change, and new technologies.

Ambassador Lee expressed his expectations for this Korea-U.S. summit, saying, "I expect it to be a more practical and beneficial meeting for national interests than any previous summit, and one that will satisfy both Korea and the U.S."

Regarding the North Korea policy reviewed by the Biden administration, he stated, "I evaluate that a practical and substantive North Korea strategy, reflecting much of our position, has been prepared," and emphasized, "We intend to maintain seamless cooperation as the U.S. policy toward North Korea is implemented going forward."