US "In Contact with Various Countries" Regarding Afghan Refugees' Acceptance by Korea

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] The U.S. Department of State has responded to reports that it requested temporary shelter for Afghan refugees at U.S. military bases in South Korea by stating that it is "in contact with various countries."

On the 23rd (local time), a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State said, "The Department of State is in contact with various countries that have U.S. military facilities that might be able to assist with evacuation efforts for Afghans."

They added, "We appreciate all our allies who have helped or are considering helping in this unprecedented mission," but refrained from sharing details about confidential diplomatic discussions or transportation plans.

William Taylor, Deputy Director for Regional Operations at the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, responded to related questions during a press briefing by saying that aside from ongoing communications, he did not know the specifics.

He said, "We are very grateful to all partners and allies who continue to assist in ensuring the safe evacuation of Afghans and Americans."

On the 23rd, South Korean time, Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong appeared before the National Assembly’s Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee and stated regarding the U.S. request for temporary shelter of some Afghans at U.S. military bases in South Korea, "It is true that a very preliminary possibility was discussed at an early stage," but added, "However, it has not been seriously discussed."

He also emphasized, "Currently, no consultations are underway," and stressed that the South Korean government’s approval is absolutely necessary to accommodate refugees at U.S. military bases in South Korea.

Earlier, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that the U.S. government is considering temporarily sheltering Afghans who cooperated with the U.S. during the Afghanistan war at overseas U.S. military bases, including those in South Korea.

Since it is physically impossible to bring thousands of refugees to the U.S. all at once, this was interpreted as a plan to temporarily house Afghans at U.S. military bases in allied countries.

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