"NATO's 5% Defense Budget Increase Reflects Broader Trend"
"United States Making Similar Requests to Multiple Allies... Need to Decide on Response"
On June 26, National Security Advisor Wi Seongrak stated that the recent decision by North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member states to increase their defense budgets represents a broader trend, and that similar expectations have also been expressed toward South Korea.
Advisor Wi explained, "NATO has decided to increase its defense budget with a target of 5%." He continued, "With regard to defense cost sharing, the United States is making similar requests to various allied countries, much like it has done with NATO, and discussions are ongoing at the working level. We need to determine how we will respond."
However, Advisor Wi added, "We will have to monitor the progress of future consultations," and clarified, "There has not been any specific discussion with the United States about what actions will be taken. The talks have focused on finding flexible common ground within the negotiation track and preparing for a (Korea-U.S.) summit."
During this trip, representing the President, Advisor Wi also reached an agreement with NATO to establish a 'Korea-NATO Director-General Level Defense Industry Consultative Body.' He stated, "As NATO is raising its defense budget to the 5% range, there is increasing demand in the defense industry. South Korea is one of the few countries capable of meeting that demand. We aim to pursue substantial cooperation."
Advisor Wi was also asked whether U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio might visit South Korea around the time of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) ministerial meeting, which will be held in Malaysia starting July 10. He responded, "There is a possibility that U.S. officials may visit South Korea on the occasion of the ARF."
Meanwhile, Advisor Wi confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump has shown considerable interest in cooperation in the shipbuilding sector. Advisor Wi said, "I had a brief conversation with President Trump," and explained, "Although the conversation was short and took place while standing, it was immediately clear from just a few words that he is interested in shipbuilding."
Advisor Wi further commented on whether there had been any progress regarding the holding of a Korea-U.S. summit during his meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the NATO Summit, stating, "There has been some progress."
Advisor Wi said, "There was consensus on the need to swiftly pursue a Korea-U.S. summit, which can be considered an achievement. Related negotiations are underway as usual, and discussions on security issues are also ongoing." He added, "We agreed to work together to ensure a substantial and successful summit."
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