S. Korean Ambassador Seeks to Enhance Security Ties with Japan

Tokyo, April 27 (Jiji Press)–South Korea’s Ambassador to Japan Lee Hyuk on Monday emphasized the need for stable security cooperation between the two East Asian neighbors. At an event hosted by the Research Institute of Japan, a Jiji Press affiliate, in Tokyo, Lee said that South Korea and Japan need to promote stable and innovative exchanges and cooperation in the area of security amid an increasingly uncertain international situation. The world is in the most precarious situation since the Cold War, Lee said, apparently keeping in mind the strategic rivalry between the United States and China, the U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran, and North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs. Noting that the Japan-South Korea relationship is very good at the moment, the ambassador said it is desirable that the ties between South Korea and Japan are starting to become closer in light of the current difficult strategic environment. Meanwhile, he warned that China, with its rapidly growing military and economic power, is becoming a significant force that could alter the order in East Asia. Citing the possibility of South Korea and Japan seeing changes in their respective relations with the United States, Lee stressed that now is an important time for Seoul and Tokyo to hold talks, conduct exchanges and cooperate as neighbors. Regarding Japan’s efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities, Lee said it is desirable for Japan’s defense and security policies to be pursued in a way to contribute to regional peace and security as the country firmly adheres to the spirit of its pacifist Constitution. He also highlighted the need for deeper economic cooperation between the two countries, revealing that the South Korean government is seriously considering the possibility of concluding a bilateral free trade agreement and joining the Japan-led Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. Still, Lee said such moves would require the creation of a favorable environment in his country. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]