Kwon Young-se "Unification Policy Itself is Cumulative... Will Preserve and Develop Capabilities"

Inauguration of the 42nd Minister of Unification

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Ki-min Lee] Kwon Young-se, the newly appointed Minister of Unification, stated on the 16th that "unification policy itself is cumulative" and "unification cannot be guaranteed by changing everything."

At the inauguration ceremony of the 42nd Minister of Unification held at the main auditorium of the Seoul Government Complex Annex in Jung-gu, Seoul, Minister Kwon said, "I used the expression 'relay race' during the confirmation hearing," emphasizing this point.

He added, "Although the international environment changes, the goal of unification itself cannot be altered under any circumstances," and stressed, "I will build upon the foundation laid by previous governments and add the philosophy of myself and the new administration to create something new." He also said, "Former Minister Lee In-young did a lot as well. I hope we can work together with renewed determination for greater goals."

Minister Kwon stated, "Previous administrations pursued unification and North Korea policies based on their own standards. The clear lesson we have learned is that policies must be pursued through bipartisan consensus based on national public support," and pledged, "Since communication with the National Assembly is important, I will take the lead in expanding communication with the opposition party and broadening consensus."

Regarding North Korea’s large-scale COVID-19 outbreak, he said, "There is concern about significant harm to residents in a situation where there are no vaccines or treatments," and added, "The government must promptly provide humanitarian aid. We plan to carry out unconditional cooperation without linking it to any political situation. We ask North Korea to cooperate in preventing harm to its people."

He also addressed the Ministry of Unification staff, saying, "You may have heard discussions about the need to readjust the functions of the Ministry of Unification during the last presidential election and transition committee," and assured, "Some may be worried, but as the minister, I say this: there will be no minus in the Ministry’s functions, only plus. We will fully preserve and develop the accumulated capabilities."

He continued, "The Unification Ministry family has faced many difficulties during challenging times. It must have been frustrating not to see the fruits of your efforts and to be misunderstood," and encouraged, "Nevertheless, building a unified Korea remains an unchanging task. Show competitiveness compared to any other ministry. If you and I join forces, we can achieve it."