Minister Lee In-young: "Denuclearization Talks Must Progress to Resolve North Korea Sanctions Issue"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] Minister of Unification Lee In-young stated that denuclearization negotiations must progress in order to resolve the issue of sanctions against North Korea.

On the 29th, just before departing for a European tour, Minister Lee told reporters, "We need to address the issues of denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, establishing a peace structure, and restoring and developing inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation together."

He emphasized that sanctions against North Korea must be lifted for inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation to proceed, and at the same time, denuclearization discussions must also advance.

Minister Lee explained, "We need to find solutions that simultaneously and gradually take corresponding measures for these three processes. For example, to resolve sanctions issues for economic cooperation, denuclearization negotiations must progress, and alongside the progress in denuclearization talks, discussions related to the peace structure should be able to take place."

He stressed that resuming dialogue is an urgent priority. Minister Lee said, "South and North Korea, North Korea and the U.S., South Korea, North Korea, and the U.S., and if necessary, related countries should meet to openly discuss these issues and demonstrate wisdom in finding solutions together. From that perspective, dialogues for progress should begin at this point in time."

Regarding North Korea's launch of a hypersonic missile, he stated, "Rather than military actions on the Korean Peninsula increasing and tensions escalating, it is preferable to create many opportunities for dialogue and cooperation for peace on the Korean Peninsula, leading to the development and improvement of inter-Korean and North Korea-U.S. relations," and added, "We will continue consistent efforts toward that end."

Minister Lee will visit Belgium, Sweden, and Germany from the 29th of this month to the 4th of next month to attend the 31st anniversary of German reunification and to enhance cooperation with major European countries. He said, "I will seek necessary cooperation and request roles from officials of the countries I meet for the improvement of inter-Korean and North Korea-U.S. relations, as well as the development of South Korea-North Korea-U.S. relations."

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