President Lee Jaemyung stated on July 3 regarding Korea-Japan relations, "Both countries are suffering due to unresolved historical issues," adding, "There are sources of conflict, but I don't think it is necessary to mix the two?conflict and diplomacy." He emphasized, "There are many areas in which Korea and Japan can cooperate."
At a press conference held at the Blue House State Guest House to mark his 30th day in office, President Lee said, "I believe we need to maintain a flexible and rational attitude, as in the saying, 'Even if you fight with your right hand, you should still hold each other's left hand.'" He reiterated, "Korea and Japan have an inseparable relationship and are both members of the liberal democratic camp," and emphasized again, "There is ample room for cooperation in both military and economic aspects."
President Lee also expressed his willingness to visit Japan. He said, "I was planning to visit Japan soon, but I heard that Japan has been very busy due to elections," and added, "While we have been discussing, we have not yet been able to set a date." He continued, "Since we are close neighbors, I hope we can avoid complicated procedures and visit each other as needed, reducing misunderstandings and cooperating on issues through dialogue whenever possible."
Regarding the issue of North Korean abductees, he said, "It is only right to resolve the grievances of the families and victims of abductions in Japan if possible, and our government should cooperate if there is anything we can do," adding, "I sympathize with Japan's efforts to resolve the abduction issue."
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