Wi Sunglak Proposes Comprehensive Package Talks on Trade, Investment, and Security; Secretary Rubio Agrees
Rubio Says "Tariff Letter Was Sent Uniformly... Let's Maintain Close Communication During Negotiation Period"
National Security Advisor Wi Sunglak announced on July 9 that he met with U.S. Secretary of State and National Security Advisor Marco Rubio, where he proposed holding a Korea-U.S. summit as soon as possible and suggested that both countries work toward mutually beneficial agreements. Secretary Rubio reportedly expressed his agreement with these proposals.
On this day, Advisor Wi visited Washington, D.C., for a four-day, two-night trip to discuss bilateral issues between Korea and the United States, including reciprocal tariff negotiations and a summit meeting, before returning to Korea. Immediately upon his return, he held a briefing and stated, "I held in-depth discussions with Secretary Rubio during our Korea-U.S. national security advisors' consultation," conveying the above details.
Advisor Wi further explained, "I told him that our government has made significant efforts to address current issues in the short period of just over a month since the launch of the new administration. I also emphasized that, although there are differences of opinion between the two sides on certain issues and adjustments may be necessary, it would be best if both countries work together toward a resolution within the broader framework of advancing the alliance and strengthening trust."
Regarding the highly anticipated reciprocal tariff negotiations, Advisor Wi stated that he proposed comprehensive discussions encompassing investment, procurement, and security. He said, "It appears that President Donald Trump's letter was focused on tariffs and non-tariff barriers. The issues we have raised so far cover a wide range of areas, including trade, investment, procurement, and security. Therefore, I suggested that we advance negotiations by considering this package as a whole." He added that Secretary Rubio expressed his agreement with this approach.
Concerning President Trump's dispatch of the 'tariff letter,' Advisor Wi explained, "Secretary Rubio said that this letter was sent uniformly to all countries that have not yet reached a trade agreement ahead of the July 9 tariff negotiation deadline. He also said that, since there is still an opportunity to reach an agreement by August 1, it would be best for Korea and the United States to maintain close communication." President Trump had sent a letter during Advisor Wi's visit to the United States on July 7 (local time), stating that a reciprocal tariff of 25% would be imposed starting August 1.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
