President Moon and Prime Minister Chung Weekly Meeting... "Strict Response to Interference with Epidemiological Investigations and Violation of Quarantine Rules"

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwangho Lee] On the 8th, President Moon Jae-in instructed strict measures against individuals or businesses that obstruct epidemiological investigations and violate quarantine rules related to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) during his weekly meeting with Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun.

President Moon met with Prime Minister Chung at the Blue House that day and said, "It is necessary to respond strictly for the safety of the majority of the people against individuals who obstruct epidemiological investigations with false statements and businesses that violate quarantine rules intentionally or through gross negligence."

He continued, "Related agencies must cooperate to take firm legal actions against such acts," and emphasized, "In cases of violations due to intentional or gross negligence, it is necessary to actively consider exercising the right of claim for economic damages such as medical expenses."

The government plans to hold a meeting of related ministers chaired by Prime Minister Chung on the 9th to discuss response measures against intentional obstruction of investigations or violations of quarantine rules.

Additionally, President Moon received a report from Prime Minister Chung on the COVID-19 response situation, including cluster infections in the metropolitan area, and expressed concern, stating, "The best way to protect ourselves in the current situation is for each citizen to thoroughly comply with quarantine rules."

Meanwhile, President Moon and Prime Minister Chung exchanged opinions on current issues such as the reorganization of the COVID-19 Official Development Assistance (ODA) promotion system.

This reorganization follows President Moon's directive in August 2017. According to the Prime Minister's Office, it is being promoted to innovate the entire ODA cycle?from strategy formulation, project discovery, to performance management?and to lead global solidarity and cooperation.

The amendment to the Framework Act on International Development Cooperation, which includes strengthening the functions of the International Development Cooperation Committee, passed the National Assembly plenary session on April 29.

President Moon and Prime Minister Chung shared the recognition that the importance of ODA has increased further due to COVID-19.

They also agreed to strive to make ODA a stepping stone for leading the new international order and achieving diplomatic successes after COVID-19.

In particular, President Moon said, "The core of this reorganization is that the International Development Cooperation Committee, chaired by the Prime Minister, will serve as the control tower of ODA, taking overall responsibility and integrating management of ODA."

He added, "Please ensure thorough follow-up measures such as expanding the committee secretariat centered on the Office for Government Policy Coordination and effective policy and project coordination."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.