SEOUL - South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and U.S. Congressman Joe Wilson engaged in discussions on Friday, focusing on strengthening the South Korea-U.S. alliance and addressing mutual concerns, including North Korea. The talks, which took place in Seoul, emphasized enhancing cooperation and maintaining regional stability.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Foreign Minister highlighted the growth and strength of the bilateral relationship across various sectors, including security, economy, and cultural exchanges. Cho expressed hope for the continued development of these ties, underpinned by close coordination between the two nations. He also extended gratitude to the U.S. Congress for its firm support of the South Korea-U.S. alliance and sought Congressman Wilson's continued focus on Korea-related issues, recognizing his expertise in foreign and military affairs.
Cho underscored the significance of a stable and predictable business environment for South Korean companies operating in the U.S. market. He emphasized the necessity for U.S. legislative action to expand the visa quota for professional workers, which would address workforce shortages and facilitate smoother business operations.
The Foreign Minister also conveyed to Congressman Wilson the critical role of trilateral cooperation among the U.S., South Korea, and Japan in effectively countering North Korea's nuclear and missile threats and ensuring peace and stability in the region.
In a separate meeting, South Korea's Defense Minister Shin Won-sik held discussions with Congressman Wilson, focusing on the development of the bilateral alliance and the security situation on the Korean Peninsula and in the broader region. As per Shin's ministry, the Defense Minister stressed the importance of strengthening ties with like-minded countries and enhancing deterrence against North Korean threats through the South Korea-U.S. alliance.
Congressman Wilson, known for his deep interest in the South Korea-U.S. alliance, Korean Peninsula issues, and bilateral economic cooperation, concurred that North Korea's nuclear and missile development poses a threat not only to the Korean Peninsula but also to the global community. Both parties agreed to collaborate in further developing the bilateral alliance.
Wilson, who serves on the House of Representatives' Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Armed Services, co-chairs the Congressional Korea Caucus. This bipartisan group is dedicated to promoting bilateral ties and raising awareness of Korea-related issues in the U.S. Congress.