At the Prime Minister's Office in Tokyo, Korea-Japan Summit Held
Small-Group Meeting Followed by Expanded Talks
"Adjusting the Unnecessary, Cooperating Where Needed Is the Ideal Relationship"
"Take Sufficient Time to Contemplate Issues That Are Truly Difficult to Approach"
Expansion of 'Shuttle Diplomacy,' Need for Overlapping Dialogue and Cooperation Between Korean and Japanese Officials
Ishiba: "Strengthening Korea-Japan Relations Benefits Not Only Both Countries, But the Entire Region"
On August 23, President Lee Jaemyung stated during an expanded summit with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba that "the global order in trade and security is in flux," emphasizing that "now more than ever, Korea and Japan, which share similar values, systems, and ideologies, must strengthen their cooperation." He also remarked that the most desirable relationship between neighboring countries is one in which both sides respect each other's strengths, adjust unnecessary aspects, and work together to gain what is needed.
President Lee made these remarks during an expanded summit with Prime Minister Ishiba at the Japanese Prime Minister's Office, following a smaller meeting between the two leaders. He stated, "Korea and Japan are like neighbors sharing the same front yard." President Lee arrived at the Prime Minister's Office at 4:54 p.m. and began the small-group meeting at 4:55 p.m. The meeting lasted for about an hour, extending well beyond the expected time, and concluded at 5:57 p.m.
President Lee added, "We share many things and there are indeed many areas for cooperation, but because we are so close, unnecessary conflicts sometimes arise." He stressed, "It is the role of Korea's political community to resolve difficult issues as they are, to take sufficient time to contemplate issues that are hard to approach, and to cooperate in areas where collaboration is possible, all for the betterment of the lives of the people of both countries."
He also expressed his hope to fully revitalize 'shuttle diplomacy' between Korea and Japan. President Lee said, "Dialogue and communication between Korea and Japan are more necessary than ever, and there is so much to be gained through cooperation. I hope that there will be overlapping dialogue and collaboration between Japanese and Korean officials."
President Lee also reiterated that this was the first time a South Korean president had chosen Japan for their first bilateral visit. He said, "I hope you recognize that we place great importance on Korea-Japan relations," and continued, "I understand that you have a special interest in balanced regional development. If you visit Korea as part of the next shuttle diplomacy, I would like to meet you not in Seoul, but in a regional area." He added, "Now that this is our second meeting, you feel like a very welcome friend, and I hope our discussions will lead to good results."
Earlier, Prime Minister Ishiba stated, "Strengthening and developing the relationship between Japan and Korea benefits not only our two countries but the entire region," adding, "It is extremely important to strengthen cooperation among Japan, Korea, and the United States." He also said, "Communication between the governments of Korea and Japan is very close, and I am reassured by President Lee's first visit to Japan. I hope that we can continue to practice shuttle diplomacy in a positive manner going forward."
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