Washington:South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun emphasized that South Korea and the United States are aligned in their approach to North Korea and committed to the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Cho made these remarks during a parliamentary audit of the foreign ministry. He noted that through multiple summit meetings, both nations have reaffirmed their policy stance and commitment to coordination. Cho highlighted ongoing consultations with the U.S. to encourage North Korea to engage in dialogue and negotiations, with efforts also made to involve China and Russia constructively.
Cho underlined the government's dedication to making "substantial progress" on the North Korean nuclear issue through a phased approach aimed at dismantling its nuclear capabilities. Concerns had been raised about the U.S. potentially shifting its focus away from denuclearization; however, the U.S. government has reiterated its commitment to complete denuclearization.
Attention is now on the upcoming U.S. midterm elections in November. Cho stated that the South Korean ministry will monitor the election outcomes closely to bolster the South Korea-U.S. alliance in Congress.
In response to questions about potential renewed dialogue between the U.S. and North Korea, Cho indicated that South Korea and the U.S. have held several consultations on the matter, bringing it up during recent meetings in Washington. He assured that South Korea's position is being fully reflected in any future talks between Washington and Pyongyang, with no separate agreements expected without Seoul's involvement.
Regarding North Korea's possible demands for recognition as a nuclear state, Cho expressed that such demands might be anticipated. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump's interest in reengaging with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has raised speculation about potentially reviving personal diplomacy.
Cho also mentioned plans for high-level exchanges with China during the upcoming APEC summit in Shenzhen, aiming to manage sensitive issues like Taiwan without affecting bilateral relations. Communication with Russia continues, particularly concerning military cooperation with North Korea, which South Korea has urged to suspend.
In a separate diplomatic issue with Ukraine, Cho stressed the importance of clarifying facts regarding two North Korean prisoners of war, following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's recent statements. The South Korean government has sought an official explanation and apology over the matter.