2024-09-07 09:56:36
Seoul said the two countries would “prevent North Korea from hiding behind Russia in its provocative actions.”
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida called for maintaining the momentum of improving relations with South Korea. He did so at a summit with President Yoon Suk-yeol in Seoul, Reuters reported, quoted by BTA.
Kishida stressed the need to continue efforts to improve bilateral ties, again expressing sympathy for Koreans who suffered under Japan’s colonial rule from 1910 to 1945.
“There is a lot of history, but it is very important that we inherit the efforts of our predecessors who overcame difficult times and cooperate for the future. Here in Seoul, I have said before that I feel devastated that so many people have such difficult, sad experiences in such difficult circumstances,” he added, referring to his comment from last year’s visit.
Yun also called for maintaining the positive cooperative momentum built by the two leaders, saying next year could provide a “turning point” for the relationship to take a leap forward as it marks its 60th anniversary.
“There are still difficult issues that remain in Korea-Japan relations. I hope that the two countries will continue to work together with a forward-looking attitude so that we can continue to take steps towards a brighter future,” said the south korean president..
Meanwhile, South Korea’s deputy national security adviser Kim Tae-hyo said his country and Japan would remain ready to prevent North Korea from hiding behind Russia in its provocative actions.
Fumio Kishida has announced he will step down as prime minister in September and the ruling Liberal Democratic Party of Japan will hold an election on September 27 to choose his successor.