President Moon: "If North Korea Agrees, We Will Actively Pursue Vaccine Supply Cooperation... The U.S. Also Strongly Supports" (Comprehensive)

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] President Moon Jae-in emphasized on the 14th that "if North Korea agrees, we will actively pursue cooperation in vaccine supply to North Korea," adding that the United States also strongly supports humanitarian cooperation. If North Korea accepts this, it is expected to become a clue to resume the stalled inter-Korean dialogue.

During his state visit to Austria, President Moon made these remarks at a joint press conference held immediately after the summit with President Alexander Van der Bellen at the Hofburg Palace. He said, "If South Korea plays the role of a global vaccine hub, North Korea will naturally be a partner for cooperation."

President Moon stated, "Only when developing countries and low-income countries receive vaccinations equitably can the entire world be freed from COVID-19," and emphasized, "The United States also actively supports humanitarian cooperation with North Korea." This opens the possibility of supplying vaccines to North Korea if South Korea assumes the vaccine hub role, drawing attention to whether North Korea will respond positively.

President Moon also revealed that the South Korea-U.S. leaders shared their North Korea policies, expressing, "I hope for North Korea's response," and added, "If inter-Korean dialogue and cooperation expand, it will play a virtuous cycle role in promoting North Korea-U.S. dialogue."

President Van der Bellen also stated, "The pandemic can only be overcome if all countries work together," and emphasized, "It is important for all, including developing and poor countries, to receive vaccinations, and North Korea is no exception." He added, "I do not know North Korea's position, but if there is a signal, we will certainly provide assistance."

Regarding former U.S. President Donald Trump's North Korea policy, President Van der Bellen said, "There was not much success," while President Moon said, "I believe much effort is being made to normalize relations."