Seoul: National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac met with U.S. Under Secretary of State Allison Hooker on Tuesday to initiate follow-up negotiations on a previously established agreement between the leaders of their respective countries. The meeting focused on enhancing security cooperation and reaffirming the ROK-U.S. alliance as a cornerstone of peace and prosperity in the Korean Peninsula and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the discussions aimed to accelerate progress on matters agreed upon in a previous summit between President Lee Jae Myung and U.S. President Donald Trump. Cheong Wa Dae released a statement expressing hope that two days of constructive talks would propel advancements on these issues.

Both parties confirmed their commitment to maintaining close dialogue and cooperation on regional developments, including those related to the Korean Peninsula and the Middle East. A significant part of the discussions revolved around South Korea's ambition to gain more authority in enriching uranium and reprocessing spent nuclear fuel, a move essential for its plan to develop nuclear-powered submarines.

Additionally, the talks may address the transition plan for the wartime operational control of South Korean troops from Washington to Seoul. Leading the U.S. delegation, Hooker arrived in South Korea on Monday as both nations prepared to engage in discussions on uranium reprocessing, scheduled for Wednesday.