Japan-Republic of Korea Relations
Japan-ROK Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
September 23, 2021
On September 23, commencing at 10 a.m. (local time) (11 p.m. on September 23, Japan time) for around 50 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs, who is visiting New York, U.S. to attend the United Nations General Assembly session, held a Japan-ROK Foreign Ministers’ Meeting with H.E. Mr. Chung Eui-yong, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea (ROK).
- The two Ministers reaffirmed the importance of Japan-ROK and Japan-U.S.-ROK cooperation for regional stability, including in dealing with North Korea, and exchanged views on bilateral relations, including issues of concern between the two countries.
- Minister Motegi pointed out that North Korea’s recent nuclear and missile activities, including the latest ballistic missile launches, pose a threat to the peace and security of Japan, the region and the international community, and stated that Japan will further advance collaboration between Japan and the ROK as well as among Japan, the U.S. and the ROK towards the complete denuclearization of North Korea in terms of reinforcing diplomatic efforts, fully implementing United Nations Security Council resolutions and strengthening regional deterrence. The two Ministers concurred on continuing close collaboration on the situation concerning North Korea. Minister Motegi also asked for continued understanding and cooperation on the abductions issue, and obtained Minister Chung’s support.
- The two Ministers also had exchanges in regard to the issue of former civilian workers from the Korean Peninsula, the judgments in the lawsuits filed by former comfort women and others, as well as other issues between the two countries. In such exchanges, Minister Motegi firmly conveyed Japan’s principled positions on these issues and renewed his call for the ROK to take appropriate actions. Concerning these issues, Minister Chung gave explanations based on the ROK’s positions.
- The two Ministers shared the view on accelerating consultations and communication through the diplomatic channels in order to restore sound Japan-ROK relations and then to make it possible to cooperate in a wide range of areas.