Choi Jong-geon, Deputy Foreign Minister, "If Soma Construction Remarks Reflect Japan's True Intentions, It Is a Serious Issue"

Published 20 Jul.2021 11:19(KST)

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo In-ho] Choi Jong-geon, First Vice Foreign Minister, stated on the 20th regarding the collapse of the Korea-Japan summit, “There was considerable convergence of opinions between Korea and Japan, but it was not finalized enough to be considered a successful summit.”

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Before departing for Japan in the morning for Korea-Japan and Korea-US-Japan deputy foreign ministers’ talks, Choi answered at Incheon International Airport about the background of the collapse of the Korea-Japan summit during the Tokyo Olympics.

Regarding whether the recent inappropriate remarks by Hirohisa Soma, Minister-Counselor of the Japanese Embassy in Korea, affected the failure of the summit, Choi said, “It acted as a considerably large obstacle.”

Choi emphasized, “The nature of the remarks was beyond words, and moreover, if it revealed their so-called true intentions, it is a big problem,” adding, “As we demanded, I believe appropriate measures will soon be taken.”

Minister-Counselor Soma caused controversy by making sexual remarks about President Moon Jae-in’s efforts to improve Korea-Japan relations during a luncheon with domestic media on the 15th.

In the afternoon, Choi is expected to meet with Takeo Mori, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, in Tokyo to inquire about the Japanese government’s will and sincerity to improve Korea-Japan relations and to demand swift action regarding Minister-Counselor Soma.

Regarding President Moon’s instruction to proceed with further Korea-Japan working-level talks, Choi said, “Historical issues directly connected to the sentiments of our people are our essential issues that must be addressed.”

On the 21st, Choi will also attend the 8th Korea-US-Japan Deputy Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Tokyo together with Wendy Sherman, US Deputy Secretary of State. The Korea-US-Japan talks are expected to discuss cooperation measures on North Korea issues as well as climate change and COVID-19 response.

Referring to the peace process on the Korean Peninsula, Choi said, “It is a meaningful opportunity for the heads of the Korea-US-Japan working-level teams to put their heads together,” adding, “We plan to take a very proactive stance to lead where leadership is needed, persuade where persuasion is needed, and cooperate where cooperation is needed.”