Cheolhee Lee, Senior Secretary for Political Affairs at the Blue House, "It would be good if the permanent consultative body between the ruling and opposition parties is activated"
Lee Jun-seok, leader of the People Power Party (left), is exchanging greetings with Lee Cheol-hee, Senior Secretary for Political Affairs at the Blue House, during a visit at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, on the afternoon of the 16th. (Photo by Yonhap News)
[Asia Economy Reporter Kum Boryeong] On the 16th, Lee Jun-seok, leader of the People Power Party, met with Lee Cheol-hee, Senior Secretary for Political Affairs at the Blue House, and repeatedly emphasized 'cooperation.'
On that day, Lee said at the National Assembly meeting with Lee Cheol-hee, "I deeply agree with President Moon Jae-in's words that there is no distinction between ruling and opposition parties in a national crisis."
He continued, "I hope you will see the opposition party as a cooperation partner so that we can persuade the people who support us," adding, "Since there is a presidential election next year, sometimes sharp words may be exchanged and misunderstandings may occur, but in the end, I urge that neither the Blue House nor the opposition party abandon the belief that they are acting in good faith for the people."
In response, Lee Cheol-hee said, "As I mentioned, there will be no distinction between ruling and opposition parties before the people," and added, "(The president's) remaining term is less than a year, and with the party's presidential election approaching, the Moon Jae-in administration is shifting from being a participant to an observer. Even if the parties compete fiercely, I hope that when facing the government, they cooperate when necessary and do what they can for the people to wrap things up."
He also said, "I hope the permanent consultative body between the ruling party, opposition, and government will be activated," adding, "Since there is not much time left for its operation, I hope it can be done promptly if possible. I hope that sufficient communication on livelihood issues will lead to a comprehensive agreement."
It was revealed that plans for a summit meeting were not discussed that day. Lee Jun-seok explained to reporters, "If it is a meeting similar to a private meeting between the opposition leader and the president, it was not discussed," and added, "If there is anything to share with the opposition and the people regarding the president's overseas diplomatic achievements, I think the time for that will come."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
