Strengthening Ties: Japan’s Foreign Minister Visits South Korea Ahead of Trump’s Inauguration
Seoul: Japan’s foreign minister, Takeshi Iwaya, will hold talks in Seoul with top officials today, seeking to strengthen ties with South Korea before the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump.
Iwaya will meet his counterpart, South Korean foreign minister Cho Tae-yul, for talks in the capital Seoul before a joint press conference, according to the South Korean foreign ministry. This marks the first such meeting by Tokyo’s top diplomat in Asia’s fourth-biggest economy in over six years.
Trilateral Cooperation
The talks are expected to centre on trilateral cooperation with mutual ally the US before Trump takes office on January 20. The three nations have bolstered security cooperation in recent years, including sharing information on North Korean missile launches. The latest such test was last week when Pyongyang said it had fired a new hypersonic missile, the same day US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was visiting Seoul.
Stability Concerns
The Seoul-Tokyo meeting comes as South Korean officials try to reassure allies of the country’s stability. A political crisis has roiled the vibrant East Asian democracy for weeks following suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed martial law bid and impeachment. Japanese prime minister Shigeru Ishiba has expressed "exceptional and serious concerns" over the situation.
US-Japanese Relations
US-Japanese relations have also been strained by President Joe Biden’s decision to block Nippon Steel’s takeover of US Steel. Citing national security concerns, Biden blocked the US$14.9 billion sale this month, and Ishiba reportedly told the US president that "strong" concerns have been raised over the decision.
Philippines Visit
Tomorrow, Iwaya will head to the Philippines as Tokyo seeks to strengthen its strategic partnership with the Southeast Asian nation, to counter China’s growing military might and influence in the region. Japan has been building the newest and largest ships of the Philippine Coast Guard, a key element of Manila’s efforts to assert its sovereignty in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims almost in its entirety.
Conclusion
The meeting between Iwaya and Cho is seen as a significant step in strengthening ties between Japan and South Korea, two key US allies in the region. The talks will focus on trilateral cooperation and regional security, amidst concerns over North Korea’s missile launches and the political crisis in South Korea. As the US presidential transition takes place, the meeting is seen as a chance to reaffirm the commitment to regional stability and security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of Iwaya’s visit to Seoul?
A: Iwaya will meet with top officials to strengthen ties with South Korea before the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump.
Q: What are the key issues to be discussed during the meeting?
A: The talks will centre on trilateral cooperation with the US, regional security, and the political crisis in South Korea.
Q: How does Japan view the situation in South Korea?
A: Japan has expressed "exceptional and serious concerns" over the political crisis in South Korea, citing the suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed martial law bid and impeachment.