Gyeongju: President Lee Jae Myung requested U.S. President Donald Trump to permit South Korea to obtain fuel for nuclear-powered submarines during their summit. The request aligns with South Korea's desire to amend its nuclear energy agreement with the U.S. to allow more flexibility in reprocessing spent nuclear fuel and enriching uranium. Lee emphasized the importance of this move for enhancing South Korea's defense capabilities against regional threats.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee highlighted the limitations of diesel-powered submarines, which affect South Korea's ability to monitor North Korean and Chinese submarines effectively. He clarified that the request is not for building nuclear-armed submarines but rather for constructing conventionally armed submarines with domestic technology to enhance regional security and reduce reliance on U.S. military forces.
Lee urged Trump to facilitate the revision of the bilateral nuclear agreement, which currently restricts South Korea's uranium enrichment and prohibits spent nuclear fuel reprocessing. He also committed to increasing South Korea's defense budget to strengthen its self-defense capabilities and support a strategic alliance with the U.S.
In addition to defense discussions, Lee reaffirmed South Korea's commitment to supporting U.S. manufacturing initiatives through increased investments and purchases. He mentioned the Make American Shipbuilding Great Again (MASGA) project, part of South Korea's $350 billion investment promise, aimed at revitalizing the U.S. shipbuilding industry.
The summit was observed closely for potential breakthroughs in ongoing trade negotiations, though no direct discussion on tariffs occurred. Trump expressed optimism about finalizing a trade deal soon, despite tempered expectations from officials on both sides.
While a meeting between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un did not happen during the Asia trip, Lee noted Trump's willingness to engage with Kim has fostered a sense of peace in the region. Lee expressed hope that this openness would contribute to long-term stability on the Korean Peninsula.
Lee hosted a dinner with Trump and leaders from seven countries to enhance regional cooperation and strengthen South Korea's role as a key U.S. ally. Discussions covered economic ties, alliance modernization, regional security, and shipbuilding industry collaboration.
South Korea's reliance on Russian nuclear fuel and the management of spent nuclear fuel from its reactors were also points of discussion. The current bilateral nuclear agreement, focusing on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, may need adjustments to include military applications like nuclear submarine fuel supply, subject to follow-up negotiations.
Lee reiterated his commitment to denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula, while Trump expressed concern over North Korea's nuclear threat and assured support for maintaining regional peace. Both leaders agreed to establish a consultative body for shipbuilding cooperation involving their National Security Councils.
Trump extended an invitation to Lee to visit the White House, which Lee appreciated, indicating plans to visit at a mutually convenient time.