Arrives at Haneda Airport on the Morning of the 23rd
"Historical Issues Should Be Discussed from a Long-Term Perspective"
Visit Begins with Meeting Korean Residents in Japan
Small-Group and Expanded Talks with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba
Attending a Dinner Event in the Evening
President Lee Jaemyung stated ahead of the Korea-Japan summit in Tokyo, Japan, "It is my conviction, as well as the principle of our government's diplomacy toward Japan, to expand cooperation between the two countries."
On the morning of the 23rd, just before departing for Japan, President Lee made these remarks in a joint written interview with Asahi, Mainichi, Nikkei, and Sankei newspapers, which was released to the public. He said, "We must face the past but move toward the future."
President Lee also mentioned that this year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and Japan, saying, "One full 60-year cycle has passed. In Korea-Japan relations, aspects of confrontation, cooperation, and coexistence with mutual acceptance all exist simultaneously." He continued, "It is important to identify what is beneficial to each other," emphasizing, "There is no need to abandon the positive aspects because of any negative ones."
Regarding the Korea-U.S. summit, President Lee said he would have candid discussions with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on regional peace and stability, security, and economic issues. On historical issues, he stressed the importance of acknowledging the facts, offering apologies, and providing sincere comfort.
President Lee expressed hope that this visit to Japan would serve as an opportunity to solidify the foundation for future-oriented cooperation. He said, "It would be better to discuss historical issues with a more fundamental awareness and deep human consideration from a long-term perspective." However, President Lee also cautioned, "We must not become too immersed in historical issues," adding, "We need to recognize reality, respect one another, and maximize actions that benefit both sides."
President Lee reiterated his intention to promote expanded exchanges, starting with the restoration of 'shuttle diplomacy' with Japan. He stated that, in response to changes in the trade environment, he plans to actively utilize not only bilateral channels but also multilateral and minilateral channels such as Korea-U.S.-Japan, Korea-Japan-China, ASEAN+3, and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). In particular, President Lee said, "It is now time to seriously discuss establishing a solid economic cooperation organization among Pacific Rim countries, including East Asia." This has been interpreted as signaling Korea's intention to discuss joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
Additionally, regarding the lifting of the ban on Japanese seafood imports, President Lee stated, "Restoring our people's trust in Japanese seafood must come first." On the issue of abductee victims, which is of particular interest to Japan, he said, "I deeply sympathize. This is an issue that must be resolved from a humanitarian perspective." He added, "Restoring dialogue is necessary in order to discuss various agendas related to North Korea."
Meanwhile, on the morning of the same day, President Lee departed from Seoul Airport and arrived at Haneda Airport in Japan. As his first official engagement, he plans to meet with Korean residents in Japan to listen to their opinions. Afterwards, he will meet with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba for both small-group and expanded talks, and attend a friendship dinner and related events.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
