Governor Kim Tae-heum: "South Chungcheong Province Will Lead as a Model for Korea-Japan Regional Diplomacy"

Attending the 16th Asian Leadership Conference...
"Local Governments Must Open a Future Leading on the International Stage"

Marking the 60th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between South Korea and Japan, Kim Tae-heum, Governor of South Chungcheong Province, proposed creating a new cooperation model for Korea-Japan relations through "regional diplomacy" led by local governments.

On May 21, at the 16th Asian Leadership Conference (ALC) held at the Shilla Hotel in Seoul, Governor Kim stated, "Since local governments face less political pressure, they can take the lead in practical exchanges and cooperation," adding, "South Chungcheong Province will serve as a leading model for Korea-Japan regional diplomacy."

He went on to say, "The two countries have repeatedly experienced conflicts due to historical, security, and economic issues," emphasizing, "It is important to foster mutual understanding among the people by promoting cultural exchanges, including K-culture."

South Chungcheong Province has maintained decades-long exchanges with its sister regions in Japan?Kumamoto, Nara, and Shizuoka Prefectures?and is currently cooperating with 35 local governments in 17 countries around the world.

Governor Kim presented key cooperation models, including ▲youth exchanges ▲joint utilization of cultural heritage ▲strengthening cooperation in climate and agriculture.

He asserted, "As we prepare for the 100th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Korea and Japan in 2065, local governments must open a future in which they lead on the international stage."

Meanwhile, the ALC is an international event hosted by Chosun Ilbo. This year, it was held under the theme "Ah! Republic of Korea: A New Journey of Innovation and Growth," and was attended by over 1,000 people, including former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.