Sangmok Choi: "Opened the Way for Korea-U.S. Trade Talks... Will Fulfill My Duties"

Choi Avoids Comment on Speculation Over Han Ducksoo's Presidential Bid

Sangmok Choi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, stated regarding the '2+2 Trade Talks' held in Washington, D.C., that "we clarified the agenda items for discussion, reached a consensus on the schedule for talks, and thus established the basic framework for future consultations."

Deputy Prime Minister Choi made these remarks to reporters at Incheon Airport on April 27, after returning from Washington, D.C., where he attended the Korea-U.S. trade consultations and the G20 Finance Ministers' Meeting.

Sangmok Choi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance.

Deputy Prime Minister Choi said, "We have reduced uncertainty and opened the way for orderly consultations in the future," adding, "I fully explained the need for cooperation with the National Assembly and Korea's political schedule."

Regarding the issue of exchange rates being brought to the discussion table, Deputy Prime Minister Choi commented, "There is a direct and ongoing communication channel between financial authorities regarding exchange rate policies," and added, "For this reason, I believe the discussions will be even more constructive."

He refrained from commenting on the speculation about Acting President Han Ducksoo running in the presidential election. Deputy Prime Minister Choi explained, "It is not for me to comment on hypothetical scenarios," and added, "I will simply carry out my given duties in accordance with the Constitution and the law."