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‘Inter-Korean agreement is an achievement supported by U.S.,’ says Moon

‘Inter-Korean agreement is an achievement supported by U.S.,’ says Moon

Posted March. 09, 2018 07:52,   

Updated March. 09, 2018 07:52

한국어

“It is a joint achievement created by inter-Korean dialogue and the strong support of the United States,” said President Moon Jae-in, referring to the outcome of the South Korean special envoys’ visit to Pyongyang. His words reiterate the importance of the cooperation of Korea and the United States to continue dialogue on the Korean Peninsula. Chung Eui-yong, who led the special delegation and head of the National Security Office, and Seo Hoon, chief of the National Intelligence Service, will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump and White House officials in Washington D.C. to deliver North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s messages and stress the importance of North Korea-U.S. talks.

“The South Korean delegation’s visit to Pyongyang has been a big step in our efforts to achieve denuclearization and peace on the Korean Peninsula,” said President Moon at the 50th Korea National Prayer Breakfast held at KINTEX in Goyang City on Thursday. “The critical moment has passed, but there are still many obstacles to overcome in achieving denuclearization and permanent peace on the peninsula.” Though South Korea has successfully drawn North Korea’s willingness to talk with the United States on denuclearization, the White House’s stance is yet to be clearly confirmed.

“We cannot afford to hand our destiny to others’ hands. We shall work with the international community including the United States, engage in dialogue with North Korea and lay the foundation for peace and prosperity on the peninsula,” said President Moon, emphasizing the importance of being in the “driver’s seat,” or autonomy in dealing with inter-Korean issues.

Chung and Seo arrived in Washington D.C. on Thursday (local time). Chung, tasked with the mission of delivering North Korea’s message to the United States, is scheduled to meet with National Security Advisory Herbert McMaster, President Trump and Central Intelligence Agency Director Mike Pompeo. “We are not in the stage of discussing details yet,” Chung told reporters prior to his departure to Washington D.C. “The most urgent task is to arrange the North Korea-U.S. talks successfully.”


Sang-Jun Han alwaysj@donga.com