Seoul: South Korea and the United States are actively coordinating their efforts towards the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, an official from the South Korean presidential office revealed. This statement comes in light of U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments referring to North Korea as “sort of a nuclear power.”
According to Yonhap News Agency, during a press briefing aboard Air Force One, President Trump described North Korea as “sort of a nuclear power,” in response to inquiries regarding North Korea’s demand to be recognized as a nuclear power as a precondition for talks with the United States.
The presidential official emphasized the collaborative efforts between South Korea and the United States, noting that Trump’s comments likely reflect acknowledgment of North Korea’s advancing nuclear capabilities. The official reiterated the shared commitment to denuclearization.
In his comments, President Trump also mentioned his awareness of North Korea’s nuclear arsenal and his rapport with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. He stated, “I know how many weapons they have, and I know everything about them. But I’ve got a very good relationship with Kim Jong-un.”
Addressing the trade relations between the U.S. and South Korea, President Trump indicated that the trade deal is nearing finalization. However, the South Korean presidential official clarified that while discussions are ongoing, no specific timeline has been set for the agreement.
The official conveyed that President Trump’s remarks were made “in principle,” expressing a desire for a timely resolution of the trade deal, and assured that the government aims to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome without imposing a strict deadline.
President Trump is scheduled to visit South Korea as part of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, with meetings planned with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Chinese President Xi Jinping.