Japan, S. Korea Agree to Maintain Momentum toward Improved Ties

Seoul, Jan. 13 (Jiji Press)--Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and his South Korean counterpart, Cho Tae-yul, on Monday agreed that the two countries need to maintain the momentum toward improving ties despite political turmoil in South Korea.

At a joint press conference with Cho after their meeting in Seoul, Iwaya signaled Japan's desire to continue shuttle diplomacy with South Korea, or mutual visits to each other's country by their leaders.

"Relations between Japan and South Korea are becoming increasingly important amid a challenging strategic environment," Iwaya said.

Cho said South Korea is determined to advance relations with Japan unwaveringly under any circumstances.

At their meeting, Iwaya and Cho shared concerns that North Korea is stepping up its nuclear and missile development and strengthening its military cooperation with Russia.

The two ministers agreed that Japan, the United States and South Korea will continue to collaborate to counter such threats from North Korea.

They reaffirmed that the three countries will continue to work together to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific region and strengthen economic security.

The meeting comes before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20.

Iwaya and Cho agreed to promote youth and other exchanges between Japan and South Korea as the two countries mark the 60th anniversary this year of the normalization of their diplomatic relations.

The ministers agreed to hold a meeting of foreign ministers from Japan, China and South Korea at an early date.

Iwaya became the first Japanese foreign minister to travel to South Korea since Yoko Kamikawa in November 2023.

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