Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung on Wednesday emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula amid upheaval in the international order, noting that the move also helps support the national economy.

According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee stated, "It's an era of upheaval in the international order. What is most important (now) is peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula," ahead of receiving policy briefings from the foreign, unification, and defense ministries. He highlighted past experiences where compromised peace led to adverse consequences, asserting that the emphasis on peace and stability cannot be overstated.

President Lee underscored the intrinsic link between peace and economic stability, declaring, "Peace is food. Peace is the economy." This suggests that maintaining peace is not only a diplomatic imperative but also a cornerstone for economic prosperity.

The president also expressed regret over security and diplomatic issues becoming entangled in partisan politics within South Korea. He pledged to produce tangible outcomes through necessary actions, emphasizing his responsibility and authority in these matters rather than resorting to rhetoric.

Lee instructed the unification ministry to persist with the government's policy of promoting peace and coexistence with North Korea, despite Pyongyang's lack of response to Seoul's repeated engagement efforts. He acknowledged the challenges, stating, "It must feel like a cry that goes unanswered," and noted the difficulty in easily improving relations after prolonged confrontation and neglect. Nevertheless, he insisted that the policy of pursuing peace and coexistence should persist.