US Sullivan: "IRA, Discussions Continue Until a 'Win-Win' for Everyone"

US National Security Advisor Delivers Online Keynote at Forum
Park Jin: "Next Year Marks 70th Anniversary of ROK-US Alliance, a Turning Point for Both Nations' Development"

Jake Sullivan, U.S. White House National Security Advisor [Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Hee-jun] Jake Sullivan, the U.S. White House National Security Advisor, addressed the issue of discrimination against Korean electric vehicles caused by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), stating, "We deeply consider Korea's clear expression of concerns," and added, "We will continue discussions until a 'win-win' outcome is achieved for everyone."

Advisor Sullivan made these remarks during an online keynote speech at the 'JoongAng Ilbo-CSIS Forum 2022' held at the Shilla Hotel in Jung-gu on the morning of the 1st.

He explained, "I am confident that even if applied as is, the IRA can create a 'win-win' situation," and added, "The IRA is not a 'zero-sum' game, and the 'pie' in the clean energy sector will grow. I believe Korean companies will also help expand the clean energy ecosystem by actively participating in the IRA."

Regarding the discriminatory provisions against Korean companies related to investment and incentives within the IRA, he said, "I think this will be resolved through bilateral dialogue." He continued, "We are approaching this issue very carefully," and elaborated, "We are examining how it will affect specific sectors and companies, and based on this, we will discuss and strive to find solutions."

On the Biden administration's North Korea policy, Sullivan emphasized the importance of trilateral cooperation among South Korea, the U.S., and Japan, stating, "We are responding to North Korea's ongoing missile threats through close cooperation among the three countries and various sanctions," and added, "Since North Korea is adopting new methods, we are continuously considering how to engage with North Korea and how to ensure regional security."

He further stated, "By responding in various ways, we will increase the cost of North Korea's provocations," and added, "Global partners are effectively implementing United Nations Security Council sanctions, and this approach will continue moving forward."

Regarding whether the U.S. is considering redeploying tactical nuclear weapons on the Korean Peninsula, he did not provide specific comments but said, "I can say that we agree on the fundamental strategy that the U.S. extended deterrence must be strengthened due to the security situation," and added, "Regarding extended deterrence, the leaders of both countries and working groups will move in a direction where extended deterrence in the region can meet South Korea's various needs through multiple measures."

Minister of Foreign Affairs Park Jin [Photo by Yonhap News]

Foreign Minister Park Jin, in his congratulatory remarks that day, emphasized that next year, marking the 70th anniversary of the South Korea-U.S. alliance, will be a turning point to elevate the bilateral relationship to a higher level, highlighting that the two countries are the optimal partners in addressing global challenges.

Minister Park stressed, "Since the launch of Korea's new government, the alliance between the two countries has become stronger than ever," and stated, "The upgraded bilateral relationship as a global comprehensive strategic alliance will serve as a solid pillar for promoting freedom, peace, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and worldwide."