Liberation Day Message:
"Cooperating to Address the Most Urgent Security Challenges"
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on August 13 (local time), "We look forward to working with President Lee Jaemyung and his administration to advance the ironclad U.S.-ROK alliance."
On the eve of Korea's Liberation Day, Secretary Rubio emphasized in a press statement titled "Korean National Day (Liberation Day)," "As indispensable allies, we will continue to cooperate to expand our shared prosperity and address the most urgent global security challenges." The reference to "the most urgent global security challenges" appears to include not only North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, but also the possibility of China attempting to alter the regional status quo-a priority for the Trump administration.
Secretary Rubio said, "For over 70 years, the United States and Korea have built an alliance based on shared values and mutual interests," and added, "The United States is proud to stand with Korea, a resilient democracy and valued economic partner." He also conveyed, "On behalf of the U.S. government, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of Korea celebrating their national day."
Although Secretary Rubio, who also serves as Acting White House National Security Advisor, did not mention the U.S.-ROK summit in his statement, his remarks are seen as reaffirming the Trump administration's commitment to the bilateral relationship ahead of the summit scheduled to be held at the White House on August 25.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
