Foreign Minister Jeong Eui-yong Holds Bilateral Talks with Australia and the Philippines in the UK

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo In-ho] Foreign Minister Chung Eui-yong met with Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne in Liverpool, UK, and confirmed the two countries' intention to cooperate for progress in the Korean Peninsula peace process.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

On the 12th (local time), Minister Chung held a brief meeting with Australian Foreign Minister Payne on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign and Development Ministers' Meeting held in Liverpool, UK, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on the 13th that they evaluated President Moon Jae-in's state visit to Australia and the elevation of bilateral relations to a ‘comprehensive strategic partnership.’

Both sides agreed to expand strategic cooperation in various fields such as economy, trade, carbon neutrality, space, and critical minerals, and shared the view that dialogue is important for lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Minister Payne expressed support for the South Korean government's efforts to advance the Korean Peninsula peace process and stated her intention to cooperate to the fullest extent.

Minister Chung also held talks with Philippine Foreign Minister Teodoro Locsin Jr. on the same day. Both sides agreed to strengthen practical cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, infrastructure, and defense, and agreed to cooperate to sign the Korea-Philippines Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as soon as possible, noting that it will contribute to strengthening supply chains.

Minister Chung requested the Philippine government's support for the participation of Korean companies in infrastructure projects such as the North-South Railway construction in the Philippines and sought the Philippines' support for its bid to become a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2024?2025 term.

Meanwhile, although Minister Chung was unable to arrange a separate meeting with the United States, it is known that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with him separately at key occasions such as receptions and meetings.

A diplomatic source explained, “They frequently stepped aside to have close talks during the reception on the 11th and the meeting on the 12th,” adding, “They had broad discussions on the Korean Peninsula and Northeast Asian situation, including a declaration to formally end the Korean War.” Secretary Blinken departed for Indonesia on the afternoon of the 12th (local time) to begin his Southeast Asia tour.

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