South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss North Korean threats and economic cooperation. While they reaffirmed commitments to denuclearization and sector collaboration, key tariff issues were not fully resolved, raising concerns for South Korean businesses amidst U.S. trade policies. The discussions also highlighted ongoing diplomatic balancing acts between the U.S. and China, particularly concerning Taiwan.
In Munich, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held their first in-person meeting since President Trump resumed office. They reinforced their commitment towards addressing North Korea’s nuclear threats and enhancing economic cooperation. However, critical trade discussions, particularly regarding tariffs, remained unresolved, leaving South Korean businesses apprehensive under U.S. protectionist policies.
During their 40-minute conversation on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Cho and Rubio focused on North Korea’s denuclearization and pledged to coordinate on related policies. They expressed concerns over increased military ties between North Korea and Russia, committing to ongoing monitoring. Additionally, they discussed the need for enhanced collaboration in sectors like shipbuilding and nuclear energy.
Regarding tariff issues, Cho highlighted the necessity for detailed consultations to achieve beneficial outcomes. Rubio indicated that U.S. agencies would review these concerns, though there was no definitive commitment to address tariffs, as indicated in the U.S. State Department’s press release. South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that discussions would continue within the framework of reviewing trade policies.
South Korean businesses are particularly anxious as tariffs on steel, aluminum, and cars might impact crucial exports, particularly to the United States. Cho also sought assistance in facilitating a phone call between South Korea’s acting leader and President Trump, but this has yet to take place, raising concerns about delayed diplomatic engagement.
The meeting highlighted South Korea’s complex diplomatic balancing act between the U.S. and China amid rising tensions. Unlike Seoul’s summary, the U.S. press statement emphasized shared concerns over China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea. This shift is essential as South Korea re-evaluates its diplomatic stance and potential ties regarding sensitive issues.
In a trilateral meeting with Japan, Cho and Rubio, along with Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi, underscored the importance of a peaceful resolution concerning Taiwan while opposing any coercive actions. The inclusion of Taiwan’s potential participation in international organizations within their discussion could provoke tensions with China, who opposes such moves under its One China principle.
Kang Joon-young, a China expert, remarked that while President Trump often reflects skepticism towards multinational diplomacy, he may push for broader international support on Taiwan matters through South Korea and Japan. South Korea’s foreign ministry reassured that their stance on the One China policy has not shifted.
The meeting between South Korea and the U.S. in Munich highlighted an emphasis on cooperation regarding North Korea while underscoring lingering trade issues. The lack of resolution on tariffs adds a layer of complexity to South Korea’s economic relations with the U.S. Moreover, as tensions grow between the U.S. and China, South Korea needs to navigate its diplomatic relationships carefully, particularly regarding sensitive issues like Taiwan. Continuous engagement and strategic efforts will be vital as the region evolves.
Original Source: www.koreatimes.co.kr
