The top U.S. envoy to South Korea, Michelle Park Steel, highlighted the importance of trust and communication in strengthening the alliance between the two countries, focusing on modernization, economic ties, and regional cooperation.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Ambassador Steel outlined her priorities in a video posted on the embassy's YouTube channel, marking her 100th day in office. She emphasized the need to modernize the alliance, expand economic opportunities, and work collaboratively with South Korea to address regional challenges.

Steel noted that trust and communication are essential components for the alliance's success. She stressed the importance of the alliance in maintaining peace and security, having helped deter conflict and defend Korea for over 70 years. Steel also highlighted the need for cooperation in tackling issues like cyber threats and the implications of new technologies to ensure security for future generations.

The ambassador praised South Korea's investments in the United States, which she said create jobs and strengthen U.S. industrial capacity while fostering closer ties for Korean companies. She pointed to shipbuilding and batteries as key areas of collaboration, citing the expertise of Korean companies as beneficial in rebuilding U.S. shipbuilding capacity and supporting energy storage solutions.

Steel concluded by emphasizing the mutual benefits of these investments, calling them a "win-win" for both nations and encouraging clear communication about the specific gains from each investment.