Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung stated that South Korea views its relations with Japan as equally significant as those with China and clarified that Seoul does not plan to involve itself in the current tensions between China and Japan. Lee's comments came during an interview with Japan's national broadcaster NHK before his diplomatic visit to Japan's Nara Prefecture for summit discussions with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee's visit follows his recent trip to China, where he engaged in summit talks with President Xi Jinping amid increasing tensions between Beijing and Tokyo over Taiwan-related remarks made by Prime Minister Takaichi. During discussions with Xi, Lee emphasized the equal importance of South Korea's relations with Japan and China, while noting Xi's critical perspective on Japan's stance regarding Taiwan. Lee refrained from taking a position on the matter, which is a core interest for Beijing.
Lee expressed hope for a peaceful resolution between China and Japan through dialogue, stating that conflict would not contribute to peace and stability in Northeast Asia. Amidst South Korea's efforts to balance relations with China, a key economic partner, and the United States, a longstanding ally, Lee reaffirmed his dedication to trilateral security cooperation with the U.S. and Japan.
Acknowledging historical issues that affect mutual trust, Lee suggested that South Korea and Japan should collaborate where possible, given the changing geopolitical landscape. He highlighted the shared values and mutual significance of both nations in Northeast Asia.
Lee also supported Prime Minister Takaichi's willingness to engage in talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un about Japanese nationals abducted to North Korea, underscoring the importance of dialogue for regional peace and stability. He expressed willingness to facilitate conditions for progress in Japan-North Korea relations.
Regarding South Korea's ban on seafood imports from eight Japanese prefectures, Lee indicated that the matter requires long-term resolution, aligning with public trust and South Korea's diplomatic agenda, including its bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a trade pact led by Japan.
Since taking office last June, Lee's upcoming meeting with Takaichi will be his fifth summit with a Japanese prime minister. He previously held three rounds of talks with Takaichi's predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba, and met Takaichi in October during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Gyeongju. Lee's visit to Nara, Takaichi's hometown, is part of ongoing "shuttle diplomacy" efforts to maintain positive relations.
The forthcoming discussions are anticipated to address regional and global issues, including North Korea, and explore opportunities for cooperation in economic, societal, and cultural domains, according to Cheong Wa Dae.