Rio de Janeiro: President Yoon Suk Yeol has asserted that South Korea's diplomatic approach toward the United States and China is not about choosing sides. He has committed to maintaining collaborative relations with both global powers amidst the anticipated return of Donald Trump to the White House. According to Yonhap News Agency, Yoon shared his aspirations for positive relations between Washington and Beijing during a written interview with Brazilian newspapers Folha de S.Paulo and O Globo. This statement was made as he attended the Group of 20 summit in Rio de Janeiro. Since assuming office in May 2022, Yoon has fortified the security alliance with the United States in light of increasing threats from North Korea, while tactfully managing ties with China, South Korea's largest trading partner. Now, with the impending Trump administration expected to adopt a more aggressive posture towards China, Yoon encounters the challenge of navigating the escalating rivalry between these major powers. Amidst this g eopolitical complexity, Yoon emphasized the importance of fair and mutually advantageous cooperation and competition, adhering to international standards and regulations. Yoon articulated in his O Globo interview that, "The coexistence of cooperation and competitiveness in the international community is inevitable. What is important is that such competitiveness and cooperation take place in compliance with international norms and rules." Looking forward, Yoon expressed optimism about collaborating with Trump, especially in expanding strategic cooperation beyond security to encompass critical sectors such as the economy, supply chains, advanced technologies, and energy. He conveyed confidence that both he and the U.S. President-elect would work together for the benefit of their citizens and for global peace and prosperity, as quoted by O Globo.