Korean-Japanese Summit Held in Canada for G7 Summit Attendance
President Lee: “Today marks a new beginning for future-oriented development between Korea and Japan”
Prime Minister Ishiba: “I hope for more active exchanges between our people”
“Cooperation and collaboration between the two countries should benefit the world more”
The two leaders agree to maintain and develop Korea-US-Japan cooperation
President Lee Jae-myung stated that Korea-Japan relations are like “neighbors sharing the same front yard, inseparable from each other” during a summit with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in Canada on the 17th (local time). Invited to the G7 Summit held in Kananaskis, Canada, President Lee expressed in his opening remarks for the Korea-Japan summit, “In our country, the relationship with Japan is often described as a ‘close yet distant country.’”
President Lee also mentioned, “Though there are small differences and differences in opinions, I hope Japan and Korea will overcome these to develop into a mutually beneficial relationship through cooperation in various areas.” Further, with the international trade environment and international relations becoming increasingly challenging, he noted that “if Japan and Korea, which have complementary relationships, cooperate in various aspects, it would greatly benefit both countries.”
Emphasizing the opportunity to improve Korea-Japan relations, President Lee added, “Even with minor challenges, by directly meeting and discussing them, I hope today marks a step toward a future-oriented relationship.”
Prime Minister Ishiba congratulated President Lee on his inauguration and responded, “Though we’re meeting in person for the first time, you are frequently seen on Japanese TV broadcasts, so it doesn’t feel like the first time.” He referenced the video message President Lee sent to the reception held on the 60th anniversary of Korea-Japan diplomatic normalization hosted by the Japanese Embassy in Seoul on the 16th, saying it was “a truly heartwarming message.”
Prime Minister Ishiba analyzed the current international situation, recognizing it as “highly severe and complex” across regions such as Ukraine, the Middle East, and Asia. He also highlighted the active exchanges between Korea and Japan, noting, “South Koreans are the most frequent visitors to Japan, and likewise, Japan sees the highest number of its nationals visiting Korea.”
Both leaders discussed the importance of more active bilateral dialogue and collaboration based on mutual respect and trust, agreeing on strengthening Korea-Japan relations on the foundation of their 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties. They also exchanged in-depth views on maintaining regional peace and stability amidst rapidly changing international circumstances and maximizing national interests.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to shuttle diplomacy following their first phone call on the 9th and agreed to advance discussions between their authorities to ensure substantive progress.