Seoul: The top U.S. diplomat responsible for East Asia policy engaged in discussions with officials in Seoul, focusing on crucial bilateral and regional matters, including the alliance between the two nations, North Korean affairs, and possibly the ongoing Middle East crisis.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Michael DeSombre, the U.S. assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, held a meeting with Chung Eui-hae, the deputy foreign minister for political affairs. Later, he was scheduled to meet separately with Jeong Yeon-doo, the vice minister overseeing diplomatic strategy and intelligence, particularly concerning North Korea. Additionally, DeSombre planned to meet Park Jong-han, the deputy foreign minister for economic affairs.
This visit marks DeSombre's first official trip to address South Korea-related issues. Having arrived in Seoul from Tokyo, this visit is part of his five-day tour across Asia, which also includes a stop in Mongolia. His trip precedes U.S. President Donald Trump's anticipated visit to China, during which there is speculation about possible re-engagement with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Kim has indicated a willingness to resume dialogue if the U.S. ceases its hostile policies toward Pyongyang. Seoul views Trump's upcoming China visit as a potential turning point for stalled diplomacy with North Korea, as the North remains unresponsive to South Korea's attempts at rapprochement.
In their discussions, DeSombre and Jeong are expected to address the Korean Peninsula's situation and efforts to bring Pyongyang back to the negotiating table. Additionally, DeSombre may discuss the ongoing Middle East crisis during his meetings with Seoul officials.
DeSombre's visit coincides with the anticipated passage of a special bill on South Korea's US$350 billion investment package for the U.S. at a National Assembly plenary session. The bill's approval is expected to advance trade and security agreements resulting from two summits between South Korean President Lee and President Trump last year. The implementation of these agreements has faced delays in Seoul's legislative process, with U.S. involvement in the Middle East crisis further complicating matters. Among the critical agreements are U.S. support for South Korea's nuclear-powered submarine acquisition efforts and securing uranium enrichment and spent fuel reprocessing capabilities for peaceful purposes.