Japan-Republic of Korea Relations

May 30, 2017
On May 30, commencing at around 5:45 p.m. for approximately 15 minutes, Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, held a telephone talk with H.E. Mr. Moon Jae-in, President of the Republic of Korea (ROK), following the missile launch by North Korea on May 29. The overview of the telephone talk is as follows.

1. Prime Minister Abe and President Moon shared the view that the repeated provocations by North Korea, including the launch of a ballistic missile on May 29, are totally unacceptable. They also agreed on the importance of a firm response through close coordination between Japan and the ROK and among Japan, the ROK and the United States, including at the United Nations. It was also confirmed that they will promote Japan-ROK, and Japan-ROK-U.S. security cooperation.

2. In addition, Prime Minister Abe stated that dialogue with North Korea for the sake of dialogue is not worthwhile and that now is the time to apply pressure on North Korea. He also stated that China has a significantly important role to play in dealing with issues regarding North Korea. In response, President Moon expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the leading role that Prime Minister Abe played in issuing a strong communiqué on the issues regarding North Korea at the recent G7 Summit. Both leaders agreed to continue to maintain close communication regarding the situation in North Korea and other issues.

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