Japanese and South Korean Foreign Ministers Reaffirm Bilateral Cooperation

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Japanese and South Korean Foreign Ministers Reaffirm Bilateral Cooperation

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul held a meeting in Seoul to underscore the significance of their countries' bilateral cooperation, particularly stressing the importance of working closely with the United States on security matters. The two diplomats reiterated the need to continue advancing trilateral cooperation with the U.S., emphasizing the strategic coordination between Japan, South Korea, and the United States in the region.

During the meeting, Minister Iwaya expressed his intention to convey to the new U.S. administration the growing importance of collaboration between Japan, South Korea, and the United States. He also mentioned his upcoming attendance at Donald Trump's inauguration in Washington and his plans to meet with Marco Rubio, the incoming U.S. secretary of state, to further discussions on regional security. Minister Cho highlighted the progress made in institutionalizing trilateral cooperation under the outgoing administration of Joe Biden and emphasized the importance of maintaining and strengthening this collaboration.

The ministers also discussed concerns over the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, particularly in light of Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. They acknowledged the need for continued vigilance in monitoring this alliance and its potential implications for regional security. Additionally, the meeting served as an opportunity for both countries to demonstrate their commitment to diplomatic stability amidst internal political challenges in South Korea following President Yoon Suk-yeol's declaration of martial law. Minister Iwaya emphasized the importance of showcasing the close partnership between Japan and South Korea both domestically and internationally.