Lee Jae Myung Announces Border Region Pledges
Promises to Restore September 19 Military Agreement and Expand Peace Economic Zone
Plans to Adjust Military Facility Protection Zones and Support Local Residents
On May 2, Lee Jae Myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, stated, "I will restore the September 19 Military Agreement, halt the distribution of anti-North Korea leaflets and waste balloons, and mutually suspend both North-South and South-North broadcasts to protect peace and safety in border areas."
On the 1st, Lee Jae Myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, visited Jeongok-eup in Yeoncheon County, a border area in northern Gyeonggi Province, where the streets were bustling with supporters. Photo by Yonhap News
On this day, through Facebook, Lee noted, "Approximately 42% of the border areas in Gyeonggi Province and 50.2% of those in Gangwon Province are designated as military facility protection zones," and announced these pledges for the border regions.
Lee said, "Under the pretext of 'military operations,' the military occupies private land, infringing on residents' property rights and causing ongoing financial damages," adding, "I will rationally adjust military facility protection zones where there are no operational restrictions, and remove unnecessary military defense barriers. Administrative procedures will be delegated to local governments to streamline the process."
He continued, "I will establish a South-North Military Joint Committee and restore communication channels to stably manage risks in inter-Korean relations, including military clashes," and added, "I will seek to resume inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation, and rebuild mutual trust."
He also announced plans to designate the border area as a 'Peace Economic Special Zone' and actively consider designating it as an 'Opportunity Development Special Zone.' Regarding this, Lee explained, "Special compensation is necessary for residents of border areas who have endured unique sacrifices since the division," and added, "We will expand infrastructure to strengthen industrial capacity as a gateway for inter-Korean exchange, attract anchor companies (leading enterprises), and foster the area as a hub city for peace."
Regarding the recently passed 'Civil Defense Basic Act,' he said, "We will implement it swiftly to ensure prompt compensation for the physical and psychological stress experienced by residents in border areas," and added, "We will also expedite budget execution to support the installation of soundproofing facilities to alleviate the suffering caused by noise damage."
He emphasized, "The state must serve as a strong shield so that the people can live their daily lives with peace of mind and the economy remains stable," and added, "I will take the lead in building a better future based on peace."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
