"Carefully Reviewing Potential Impact on Financial Markets"
Written Interview with Singaporean Media on 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations
On Korea-China Relations: "Responding Strictly Based on National Interests While Understanding Competitive and Cooperative Factors"
President Lee Jaemyung stated that he is carefully reviewing the potential impact of the Korea-U.S. tariff negotiations on the financial markets and emphasized that he has not set any artificial deadlines for the talks.
In a written interview with Singapore's 'The Straits Times' released on the 24th, President Lee said, "We are seeking ways to maximize mutual benefits between Korea and the United States." He reiterated his cautious stance, especially as last-minute negotiations continue over the investment package for the United States. In an interview with CNN in the United States released the previous day, President Lee also remarked, "It seems that considerable time and effort are required to adjust and resolve differences between Korea and the United States," making it clear that he would not rush the negotiations.
Regarding Korea-China relations, President Lee stated that amid the ongoing U.S.-China conflict, he would respond strictly based on national interests. He said, "We must respond by thoroughly basing our actions on national interests while comprehensively understanding both competitive and cooperative factors." He also commented on the ongoing anti-China protests in Korea, pointing out that they "only lead to distrust between neighboring countries."
Additionally, President Lee noted that Korean society has fully recovered from the turmoil within ten months since the martial law crisis last December. He expressed that the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, which opens next week, will once again demonstrate that the Republic of Korea is a central player on the global stage.
This interview was conducted to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Korea and Singapore. President Lee said, "Korea and Singapore, which together achieved the miracle of East Asia, will be able to wisely navigate the changing global order and establish themselves as true leading nations in the 21st century."
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